Premier League Sunday Preview: Key Matches on 4 January
Premier League Sunday Preview: Key Matches on 4 January
Premier League Sunday Preview: Key Matches on 4 January , The Premier League continues its relentless pace into the new year as Sunday, 4 January 2026, delivers a packed and thrilling schedule. With six compelling fixtures spread across the day, fans can expect historic rivalries, tactical battles, and a headline showdown at the Etihad Stadium.
As clubs move beyond the festive congestion, the league table begins to take clearer shape. Whether it’s the title race, European ambitions, or the fight for survival, this Sunday could prove decisive.
Below is your full Premier League Sunday preview, featuring match analysis, key players, team news, and score predictions.
Leeds United vs Manchester United
Kick-off: 12:30 GMT | Elland Road
Sunday begins with one of English football’s fiercest rivalries. Leeds United host Manchester United in the iconic Roses derby, a fixture that rarely lacks intensity.
Leeds remain aggressive under their current system, pressing high and attacking with pace. Crysencio Summerville is the standout threat, capable of unsettling any defence. However, defensive gaps remain a concern, especially against elite opposition.
Manchester United arrive with renewed control in midfield following Bruno Fernandes’ return from suspension. While Rasmus Højlund remains a doubt, Joshua Zirkzee could lead the line, offering physical presence and link-up play.
Prediction: Leeds 1–2 Manchester United
United’s experience and counter-attacking efficiency should prove decisive in a tight contest.
Everton vs Brentford
Kick-off: 15:00 GMT | Hill Dickinson Stadium
Everton’s new stadium has quickly become a stronghold, and Brentford face a tough task on Merseyside.
The Toffees have looked defensively solid, anchored by Tarkowski and Branthwaite, while Dominic Calvert-Lewin remains their primary attacking outlet. Brentford, though well-drilled, have struggled for consistency away from home.
With Ivan Toney still leading the line, the Bees carry danger, but injuries and squad depth could limit their impact.
Prediction: Everton 2–1 Brentford
Home advantage and physicality give Everton the edge.
Fulham vs Liverpool
Kick-off: 15:00 GMT | Craven Cottage
Liverpool travel to London aiming to maintain momentum in their title pursuit. Fulham, however, are no strangers to troubling top sides at home.
The hosts rely on the creativity of Andreas Pereira and the finishing of Raúl Jiménez, but defensive fragility remains an issue. Liverpool’s attacking depth, led by Mohamed Salah, should stretch Fulham throughout.
Prediction: Fulham 1–3 Liverpool
Liverpool’s quality in transition and final third should be too much.
Newcastle United vs Crystal Palace
Kick-off: 15:00 GMT | St James’ Park
Newcastle continue to thrive in front of their home crowd and face a Crystal Palace side still searching for consistency.
With Bruno Guimarães controlling midfield and Alexander Isak in fine form, Newcastle carry a balanced threat. Palace remain dangerous on the break through Eberechi Eze, but injuries could limit their options.
Prediction: Newcastle 2–0 Crystal Palace
Intensity and home dominance should secure a clean-sheet win.
Tottenham Hotspur vs Sunderland
Kick-off: 15:00 GMT | Tottenham Hotspur Stadium
Tottenham welcome promoted Sunderland in a clash of styles. Ange Postecoglou’s attacking philosophy continues to deliver goals, while Sunderland rely on structure and work rate.
Son Heung-min and James Maddison remain Spurs’ creative engines, though defensive lapses persist. Sunderland’s energy may cause problems, but quality should tell.
Prediction: Tottenham 3–1 Sunderland
Spurs’ firepower proves decisive despite moments of resistance.
Manchester City vs Chelsea
Kick-off: 17:30 GMT | Etihad Stadium
The day concludes with a blockbuster. Manchester City host Chelsea in a fixture loaded with narrative and title implications.
City look relentless, with Erling Haaland leading the line and Kevin De Bruyne orchestrating play. Chelsea, under interim management, will lean heavily on Cole Palmer’s creativity but face a daunting challenge.
Prediction: Manchester City 3–1 Chelsea
City’s control and home form should overpower Chelsea’s attacking threat.
Final Thoughts
Sunday’s Premier League action encapsulates everything that makes the league compelling: historic rivalries, rising contenders, and elite-level clashes. With winter conditions and fixture congestion still influencing performances, surprises remain possible.
For fans, 4 January 2026 promises a full day of high-stakes football — one that could significantly reshape the Premier League landscape.
