In a surprising turn of events, Liverpool experienced an unexpected setback in their quest for the Premier League crown, suffering a 3-2 defeat at the hands of Fulham on Sunday. Meanwhile, at the opposite end of the league table, Southampton became the first team to face relegation from England’s top division this season following a 3-1 loss to Tottenham.
The much-anticipated clash between Manchester United and Manchester City resulted in a lackluster 0-0 draw at Old Trafford, offering little excitement to fans.
Liverpool’s defeat dashed their hopes of extending their lead to 14 points over second-placed Arsenal, and brought them closer to what could have been a record-tying 20th English league title. An impressive first-half performance by Fulham at Craven Cottage saw them hand Liverpool only their second league defeat of the season.
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk expressed his disappointment, stating, “A very poor first half in terms of the goals we conceded. It was so unnecessary and then you’re fighting a very tough battle. We tried everything in the second half but when you ship three goals in the first half it’s very difficult.”
Despite their advantage from a 1-1 draw between Arsenal and Everton, Liverpool couldn’t capitalize on the opportunity. They initially took the lead through Alexis Mac Allister’s early goal, but found themselves trailing 3-1 at halftime due to rapid goals from Ryan Sessegnon, Alex Iwobi, and Rodrigo Muniz in the first half. Luis Diaz managed to score Liverpool’s second goal post-break, but it was not enough.
Liverpool continues to hold an 11-point lead over Arsenal, maintaining a strong position with seven games left to secure the title.
In Manchester, the once football-centric city faced a disappointing goalless derby at Old Trafford. The lack of intensity and excitement in the game prompted criticism, with Sky Sports commentator Gary Neville remarking that more effort and risk should have been involved.
The game offered few scoring opportunities, with City’s Omar Marmoush and United’s Joshua Zirkzee coming closest to breaking the deadlock. United head coach Ruben Amorim acknowledged the struggle both Manchester teams are facing this season. He noted, “I understand that … we are doing the worst season in (United’s) history. Manchester City won everything in the past, (but) this season is struggling. We are not in the best moments to give the best spectacle to every fan.”
Both Manchester teams face the possibility of missing out on the Champions League next season, a first since 1995-96. United’s hopes depend on winning the Europa League, while City also faces a turbulent path to qualification.
Currently in fifth place, City is just one point ahead of sixth-placed Aston Villa. With Newcastle close behind in seventh, the competition for European positions remains fierce.
City manager Pep Guardiola is focusing on immediate challenges, stating, “I’m not concerned about next season right now, I’m just concerned about recovery and the next games against Crystal Palace, Everton, Aston Villa, and FA Cup semifinals.”
The derby was marred by offensive chants directed at City’s Phil Foden, which Guardiola condemned as lacking class and integrity.
Meanwhile, Manchester United fans continued their protests against the club’s ownership with a sit-in demonstration, albeit smaller than previous protests.
Regarding Southampton’s relegation, with only ten points from thirty-one games, it was confirmed when they lost to Tottenham. Manager Ivan Juric emphasized the need for reflection, saying, “We’re disappointed. It has to be a big school for everything – for us, for me, for the players, for the club – to see what we did wrong.”
Tottenham sealed Southampton’s fate with two goals from Brennan Johnson and a late penalty from Mathys Tel. Mathues Fernandes scored a consolation for Southampton.
Elsewhere, Chelsea maintained their fourth-place position following a goalless draw at Brentford.