Premier League game week 22 begins with Manchester derby as title race intensifies

The Premier League enters Game Week 22, signaling that the season has now passed the halfway mark.

The weekend’s fixtures are packed with high-stakes clashes, but the spotlight will be firmly on the Manchester Derby, where Manchester United host Manchester City at Old Trafford on Saturday lunchtime.

While the derby is the headline event, several other key matches later in the day could influence the race for the top four and the title.

1. Chelsea vs Brentford – Sunday, Stamford Bridge

Chelsea will host Brentford in what will be Liam Rosenior’s third game in charge after replacing Enzo Maresca. Rosenior’s only victory so far came in the FA Cup, where Chelsea defeated Charlton 4-1.

Brentford arrive in strong form, sitting fifth in the league, above Chelsea. The Bees’ star midfielder Igor Thiago has been in excellent form and could prove a major threat at Stamford Bridge, potentially causing problems for the struggling Blues.

2. Liverpool vs Burnley – Anfield

Anfield has not been the fortress it once was this season, with several lower-ranked teams securing positive results there. Burnley are the visitors this weekend, and they have shown they are capable of causing upsets.

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Their recent performance against Manchester United highlighted their quality, and Liverpool will need to be alert to avoid a surprise result on home soil.

3. Nottingham Forest vs Arsenal – Saturday

Arsenal head to Nottingham Forest on Saturday in a match that could prove more challenging than many expect. Despite winning recent games, Mikel Arteta’s side have not been convincing, particularly in their 0-0 draw against Liverpool at the Emirates last weekend.

At Forest, Arsenal will face Sean Dyche’s well-drilled defence, and any lapse in concentration could see them drop crucial points in the title race.