Premier League matchday 38 predictions and top tips: I'm backing Liverpool and Newcastle wins, plus plenty of attacking football

On May 25, all Premier League fixtures for the final matchday will be played, and I’ve prepared predictions for some key games. Who needs a win to clinch their goals, and who’s just seeing out the season?

• See also: Elversberg vs Heidenheim prediction, H2H and probable lineups — May 26, 2025

Liverpool vs Crystal Palace. Liverpool to finish their title-winning season on a high

These two sides will square off in next season’s Community Shield. Liverpool have long since secured the title, and the Merseysiders will aim to wrap up their campaign with a victory—especially after a three-game winless run. Crystal Palace haven’t made a splash in the league, but they made their fans ecstatic by winning the FA Cup, a trophy that will see the Eagles play in the Europa League next season.

Both teams have settled their season objectives, so there’s little at stake in terms of table position. Palace have managed to avoid defeat at Anfield in their last two visits—a source of pride. I agree with the bookies, who have the hosts as clear favorites. A title-winning campaign deserves a winning send-off, and the fans will be out in force to watch their heroes.

Betting tip: Liverpool to win with a -1 goal handicap at 1.68 odds.

Manchester United vs Aston Villa. Tough road for the Villans

Here, only the visitors have something to play for, which is why they’re slight favorites and the odds on an Aston Villa win are dropping. Heading into the final round, there’s a fierce battle for the top five—Villa are sixth, trailing two rivals only due to goal difference. Unai Emery’s men need a win and then must hope for their competition to slip up, which won’t be easy for anyone.

Manchester United’s squad is deflated after losing the biggest match of their season in the Europa League final, leaving them without silverware or European football. The outcome here doesn’t matter for the Red Devils in terms of the table, but even so, United can’t afford to simply hand over points. Villa’s motivation is clear, but it’s harder to predict the hosts’ attitude. I expect an open, end-to-end contest.

Betting tip: Both teams to score – yes, at 1.62 odds.

Nottingham Forest vs Chelsea. Who will clinch a Champions League spot?

Heading into the last round, five teams are vying for three Champions League places. Chelsea are slight favorites here—a win would guarantee them a spot in Europe’s top competition next season. If Nottingham Forest win, they’ll be locked in at sixth, but their top-five fate will depend on other results. The Tricky Trees could have secured Champions League football much earlier, but stalled late in the campaign. European football is assured, but which competition remains to be seen.

This one promises a fierce battle—neither side will settle for a draw, as that would open the door for rivals to leapfrog them. Expect attacking football and plenty will hinge on finishing chances.

Betting tip: Both teams to score – yes, at 1.63 odds.

Newcastle vs Everton. The Magpies’ fate is in their own hands

This looks straightforward—motivated Newcastle are at home against an Everton side with nothing left to play for. In the Premier League, there are no easy matches—the Toffees certainly won’t roll over. Newcastle are heavy favorites, but most importantly, they don’t need to worry about other results—a simple victory will book their Champions League place.

I expect relentless pressure from the home side, who have already lifted the EFL Cup this season and now have a golden opportunity to reach the most prestigious European competition. Everton arrive in good shape, unbeaten in three, so they could cause problems for the fired-up hosts.

Betting tip: Newcastle to win with a -1.5 goal handicap at 1.88 odds.

Fulham vs Manchester City. No room for error for the Citizens

The result here only matters for the visitors—Fulham are locked into a mid-table finish no matter what. The odds reflect that, with City firm favorites and their price only shortening. Mathematically, a draw would be enough for City to stay in the top five and secure Champions League football.

Pep Guardiola’s men are trophyless this season, never truly in the title race, and lost the FA Cup final despite being favorites. Fulham are unpredictable—without pressure, the Cottagers could cause plenty of problems, especially on home turf, and will want to put on a show for their fans.

Betting tip: Both teams to score – yes, at 1.63 odds.

The end of the season is a great time for betting, as it’s easier to spot likely winners. From the games above, you could combine a 13.6 odds accumulator—though much depends on which bookmaker you choose.