Premier League: 10 key matches this weekend

The Premier League featured 10 key matches to watch for this weekend.

1. Slot eyes European boost against Chelsea

Liverpool eased one self-inflicted headache by listening to their fans and scrapping plans to raise ticket prices for the next three seasons. Anfield’s attention could now focus on eradicating another issue as Arne Slot’s side aimed to salvage a poor season with Champions League qualification. A victory against Chelsea would secure a top-five finish if Bournemouth fails to win against Fulham. Chelsea, with a history of poor performances, aimed to avoid an unwanted record of losing seven successive league games.
Match: Liverpool v Chelsea, Saturday at 12:30pm (BST)

2. Seagulls show confidence in Hürzeler

Brighton rewarded Fabian Hürzeler with a three-year contract extension, having turned around their season with six wins in nine matches. Victory over Wolves was essential for their hopes of qualifying for Europe again, followed by fixtures against Leeds and Manchester United.
Match: Brighton v Wolves, Saturday at 3pm

3. Silva’s sights on pastures new?

Marco Silva’s future at Fulham remained uncertain as he faced a potential exit with his contract expiring at the season's end. His Fulham team intended to secure European qualification by winning against Bournemouth. Silva’s name appeared on Chelsea’s shortlist, leading to speculation about his next steps.
Match: Fulham v Bournemouth, Saturday at 3pm

4. United wary of superb Sunderland

Michael Carrick’s Manchester United approached the match against Sunderland with caution. Carrick faced Sunderland’s Régis Le Bris knowing the promoted side still harbored European ambitions. Amad Diallo, back at the Stadium of Light, reflected on his time with Sunderland during his loan spell, expressing his continued support for the club.
Match: Sunderland v Manchester United, Saturday at 3pm

5. A game to suit departing Stones?

Manchester City needed goals to stay in the title race, but stopping Brentford would be a concern for Pep Guardiola. John Stones, determined to remain relevant in his final months at City, aimed to make a significant impact before his departure.
Match: Manchester City v Brentford, Saturday at 5:30pm

6. Amdouni can lift the mood at Burnley

Zeki Amdouni returned from a lengthy injury against Leeds, a positive for a struggling Burnley side. His performance against Aston Villa might provide a much-needed morale boost in uncertain times for the club.
Match: Burnley v Aston Villa, Sunday at 2pm

7. Palace to have major say in title outcome

Crystal Palace’s Oliver Glasner likely rotated his squad for the fixture against Everton, with one eye on their next match against Manchester City. Their performance could greatly influence the title race, especially if they needed to secure their own safety in the league.
Match: Crystal Palace v Everton, Sunday at 2pm

8. Elanga to relish a stage he...