Liverpool Extends Lead – Arsenal Stumbles Again

In Manchester, England, Liverpool appears to be on the brink of clinching a historic 20th English league title, potentially matching Manchester United’s record. The team widened their lead in the Premier League to a substantial 13 points following a commanding 2-0 win against Newcastle on Wednesday.

Their main rivals faltering, Liverpool capitalized on Arsenal’s setback, as the latter managed only a scoreless draw against Nottingham Forest. Dominik Szoboszlai struck early on in the 11th minute, while Alexis Mac Allister secured the win past the hour at Anfield, marking Liverpool’s 20th league win out of 28 matches this season.

With Arsenal struggling amidst an ongoing injury crisis that has depleted their attack, they failed to score for the third time in four matches, allowing Liverpool to extend their lead unobstructed. Meanwhile, Manchester City climbed back to fourth place. The return of Erling Haaland, recovering from a knee injury, propelled City to a narrow 1-0 victory over Tottenham, aiding their race for a top-four finish.

Manchester United, with only ten players, faced a tough challenge from a relegation-threatened Ipswich side. Despite trailing after just four minutes from Jaden Philogene’s goal, United rallied to secure a 3-2 win, even with a red card issued to Patrick Dorgu in the first half.

Liverpool’s march towards the title continues unabated as their rivals falter. Missing coach Arne Slot due to a two-match ban, Liverpool nonetheless managed a straightforward victory against a weakened Newcastle, who played without the injured striker Alexander Isak. Szoboszlai’s opener was complemented by Mac Allister’s conclusive goal after an assist from Mohamed Salah.

As Liverpool prepares to meet Newcastle again in the English League Cup final at Wembley, they eye the possibility of the first part of a potential treble, whereas Newcastle hopes to end a seven-decade-long wait for a major domestic trophy.

On the other hand, Arsenal seems to be regretting their lack of activity in the January transfer window. Manager Arteta would benefit from new attacking resources, especially with injuries plaguing key players like Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka, and Gabriel Jesus. Despite a reported interest in Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins, Arsenal failed to make any significant acquisitions, further complicating their title pursuits. Arsenal’s Leandro Trossard expressed disappointment, citing the team’s dominant play but inability to convert opportunities into goals.

For City, Haaland’s return reinvigorated their campaign, restoring them to the path of victory. Despite exiting the Champions League to Real Madrid and subsequent defeat to Liverpool, City’s focus shifts towards securing a top-four finish and potentially winning the FA Cup. Haaland’s early goal against Tottenham marked his 28th across all competitions this season.

Meanwhile, Manchester United experienced a hard-fought win over Ipswich, a team awaiting their first league victory of 2025. After falling behind quickly, United benefited from an own goal to equalize, advancing to lead through Matthijs de Ligt’s goal. Although Dorgu received a red card before half-time, an own goal from Ipswich’s Harry Maguire just after the break secured United’s win, which was only their third at home since December 1. United climbed to 14th place, overtaking Everton, who drew 1-1 with Brentford.