Premier League Gameweek 38: Final Day Fixtures and Predictions for May 25, 2025

The 2024/25 Premier League season reaches its dramatic conclusion on Sunday, May 25, 2025, with all 10 matches of Gameweek 38 kicking off at 14:00 BST (3:00 PM WAT). As the curtain falls on another thrilling campaign, the final day promises high stakes, with battles for European qualification, survival, and pride on the line. While the title race may already be decided, with Liverpool reportedly in pole position to lift the trophy, the race for Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League spots remains fiercely contested. At the other end of the table, relegated sides like Ipswich, Southampton, and Leicester will aim to bow out with dignity. Below, we provide a comprehensive preview of the fixtures, along with predictions based on recent form, betting odds, expert analyses, and insights from posts on X.

Fixtures and Predictions

1. Bournemouth vs Leicester

• Prediction: Bournemouth 2-0 Leicester
• Analysis: Bournemouth have had an inconsistent run, managing just one win in their last five matches, but they remain a formidable force at the Vitality Stadium. Leicester, potentially already relegated by the final day, may struggle to muster the motivation needed to challenge. Bournemouth’s attacking options, led by players like Dominic Solanke (if still with the club), should exploit Leicester’s fragile defense. Expect a comfortable home win to close out the Cherries’ season.

2. Fulham vs Manchester City

• Prediction: Fulham 1-3 Manchester City
• Analysis: Manchester City, likely chasing a Champions League spot or even a late title push depending on earlier results, are heavy favorites. Fulham have shown resilience at Craven Cottage, but their defensive frailties could be exposed by City’s relentless attack, potentially featuring stars like Erling Haaland. While Fulham may nick a goal, City’s depth and quality should secure a convincing victory to cap their campaign.

3. Ipswich vs West Ham

• Prediction: Ipswich 1-2 West Ham
• Analysis: Ipswich, newly promoted but likely relegated by Gameweek 38, will want to give their fans something to cheer about at Portman Road. However, West Ham’s attacking prowess, driven by players like Jarrod Bowen, should prove too much. The Hammers, aiming to secure a mid-table finish or even a Conference League spot, have the experience to edge out a spirited but limited Ipswich side.

4. Liverpool vs Crystal Palace

• Prediction: Liverpool 3-2 Crystal Palace
• Analysis: This matchup has the makings of a goal-fest, with posts on X highlighting it as the game most likely to produce high-scoring drama. Liverpool, potentially celebrating the title at Anfield, will be buoyed by their raucous home crowd and attacking stars like Mohamed Salah. Crystal Palace, under Oliver Glasner, have embraced an attacking style, making them dangerous on the counter. Expect an entertaining, high-scoring affair, with Liverpool’s firepower giving them the edge.

5. Manchester United vs Aston Villa

• Prediction: Manchester United 0-3 Aston Villa
• Analysis: Aston Villa have been one of the season’s standout teams, consistently challenging for a top-four spot. Manchester United, plagued by inconsistency throughout the campaign, could end on a low note at Old Trafford. Villa’s cohesive unit, led by Ollie Watkins and a robust midfield, should capitalize on United’s defensive lapses. This prediction aligns with Villa’s strong away form and United’s struggles against top sides.

6. Newcastle vs Everton

• Prediction: Newcastle 2-0 Everton
• Analysis: Newcastle’s push for European qualification, potentially a Europa League or Conference League spot, makes this a crucial fixture. St. James’ Park has been a fortress, and players like Alexander Isak could prove decisive. Everton, likely safe in mid-table, have a solid defensive setup but may lack the attacking spark to match Newcastle’s intensity. A home win seems likely to send the Toon Army into the summer with optimism.

7. Nottingham Forest vs Chelsea

• Prediction: Nottingham Forest 1-2 Chelsea
• Analysis: This clash could be pivotal in the race for Champions League qualification, with both teams in contention for a top-four finish. Nottingham Forest have been a revelation at home, backed by a passionate City Ground crowd. However, Chelsea’s depth, bolstered by significant squad investment, gives them a slight edge. Expect a tight contest, with Chelsea’s attacking quality, possibly led by Cole Palmer, securing a narrow victory.

8. Southampton vs Arsenal

• Prediction: Southampton 0-3 Arsenal
• Analysis: Arsenal, likely in the title race or cementing a Champions League spot, face a Southampton side that may already be relegated. The Saints have struggled defensively all season, and Arsenal’s attacking trio, potentially including Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard, should have little trouble breaking them down. A clinical performance from the Gunners is expected at St. Mary’s.

9. Tottenham vs Brighton

• Prediction: Tottenham 1-3 Brighton
• Analysis: Brighton’s attacking flair under their current management makes them a dangerous opponent, even at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Spurs have been inconsistent at home, and their defensive vulnerabilities could be exposed by Brighton’s dynamic attackers like Kaoru Mitoma. While Tottenham will push for a Europa League spot, Brighton’s confidence and form suggest they could pull off an upset to close the season.

10. Wolves vs Brentford

• Prediction: Wolves 2-2 Brentford
• Analysis: Both teams are likely to be safely mid-table, playing for pride on the final day. Wolves have shown flashes of brilliance at Molineux, while Brentford’s attacking style, led by players like Ivan Toney (if still with the club), ensures they’re a threat. This match has the makings of an open, entertaining draw, with both sides finding the net.

Key Storylines to Watch

Title Race and European Qualification

While Liverpool may have clinched the title before Gameweek 38, the battle for Champions League spots remains intense. Arsenal, Manchester City, Chelsea, Aston Villa, and Nottingham Forest are among the teams vying for top-four finishes. Newcastle and Tottenham are also in the mix for Europa League or Conference League qualification, making their matches critical. Posts on X suggest that the outcomes of these games could hinge on key individual performances and tactical decisions.

Relegation Battles

Ipswich, Southampton, and Leicester are widely tipped to be relegated by the final day, based on their struggles throughout the season. For these teams, Gameweek 38 is about salvaging pride and giving fans a positive send-off before Championship football next season. However, unexpected results could still shake up the bottom of the table, especially if teams like Wolves or Everton falter.

Fantasy Premier League (FPL) Focus

FPL managers are gearing up for a crucial final day, with experts recommending players from Arsenal, Manchester City, and Newcastle due to their favorable fixtures. Posts on X and analyses from sites like www.allaboutfpl.com highlight players like Bukayo Saka, Erling Haaland, and Alexander Isak as top captaincy picks. Liverpool vs Crystal Palace is tipped as the game to target for attacking returns, with potential for high goal tallies.

Goal-Scoring Expectations

The final day is expected to deliver goals, with Liverpool vs Crystal Palace flagged as the likeliest to produce a high-scoring thriller. Some X posts even predict at least one match could end with a 5-0 scoreline, with Arsenal vs Southampton a prime candidate due to the disparity in form.

Sources and Methodology

These predictions are based on a synthesis of recent analyses from reputable sources such as www.premierleague.com, www.goal.com, and www.allaboutfpl.com, alongside betting odds and team news. Insights from X posts provide a real-time pulse on fan sentiment and expectations, though they are treated with caution due to their speculative nature. Team form, player availability, and historical head-to-head data also inform the predictions. Note that actual outcomes may differ due to the unpredictable nature of football.

Conclusion

The Premier League’s final day on May 25, 2025, promises to be a fitting climax to an exhilarating season. From Liverpool’s potential title celebration to the fierce battle for European spots and the emotional farewells of relegated sides, Gameweek 38 has something for every fan. Whether you’re an FPL manager chasing points, a supporter cheering your team, or a neutral enjoying the drama, the Premier League’s finale is not to be missed.

Note: All times are in BST unless otherwise stated. For further details on FPL or betting odds, visit www.allaboutfpl.com or www.oddschecker.com.