The Premier League's Boxing Day weekend rolls on with seven matches set to reshape the title race and relegation battle. After Patrick Dorgu's stunning volley secured Manchester United a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Newcastle at Old Trafford on Friday, all eyes now turn to a packed Saturday schedule.
Dorgu delivers: United grind out Boxing Day win
Ruben Amorim's tactical gamble paid off spectacularly on Friday night. The Portuguese coach switched to a back four for the first time since taking charge, and 21-year-old Patrick Dorgu rewarded his faith with a sensational 24th-minute volley.
Playing as a makeshift right winger, the Danish international struck his first Manchester United goal after a poor clearance from Newcastle's Nick Woltemade fell invitingly at the edge of the box. The left-footed strike left Aaron Ramsdale with no chance.
"We had to suffer all together in the stadium," Amorim said after the match. "If we always have this spirit, we are going to win so many games. Clean sheet, back four, so I don't need a press conference. All the subjects are covered."
The win lifted United to fifth in the table, and Amorim was particularly pleased with teenager Ayden Heaven, who started his fifth consecutive Premier League match at the heart of defense. "I'm really pleased with Ayden. You can feel that he's improving every game."
Saturday's headliner: Chelsea vs Aston Villa
The day's marquee fixture sees Aston Villa head to Stamford Bridge chasing a club record-equaling 11th consecutive victory across all competitions. Unai Emery's side have been the league's form team, winning seven straight in the Premier League to climb to third place, just three points behind leaders Arsenal.
Chelsea, meanwhile, are seven points adrift of the Villans in fourth after managing just one win in their last four league outings. The Blues drew 2-2 with Newcastle last weekend after surrendering a two-goal lead.
Cole Palmer will need to produce something special to halt Villa's momentum, with Morgan Rogers in devastating form for the visitors. The England forward has seven Premier League goals this season and has been instrumental in Villa's remarkable run.
Emotional afternoon at Anfield
Liverpool's clash with Wolves promises to be an emotional occasion as both clubs pay tribute to Diogo Jota. The Portuguese forward, who passed away in July, was beloved at both clubs, and his two sons will be among the matchday mascots at Anfield.
On the pitch, Arne Slot faces a selection headache with Mohamed Salah away at the Africa Cup of Nations and Alexander Isak sidelined for months with a broken leg suffered against Tottenham. Hugo Ekitike is expected to lead the line against rock-bottom Wolves, who have just two points from 17 games.
"It's going to be emotional," Slot acknowledged. "But we have to be professional too. We owe it to Diogo to perform."
Title race heats up
In the early kick-off, Manchester City visit Nottingham Forest looking to maintain their seven-match winning streak across all competitions. Pep Guardiola's side have scored 18 goals in December alone and kept four clean sheets in their last five matches.
Victory at the City Ground would see City leapfrog Arsenal at the top of the table before the Gunners host Brighton in the afternoon. Mikel Arteta's side are seeking a sixth consecutive home Premier League win, with Viktor Gyokeres expected to return to the starting lineup after being rested in the Carabao Cup.
Today's fixtures (Saturday, December 27)
12:30 UTC: Nottingham Forest vs Manchester City
15:00 UTC: Arsenal vs Brighton, Brentford vs Bournemouth, Burnley vs Everton, Liverpool vs Wolves, West Ham vs Fulham
17:30 UTC: Chelsea vs Aston Villa
What's at stake?
With Arsenal on 39 points and Manchester City on 37, the title race could take a decisive turn this weekend. Villa's trip to Chelsea could see them close to within touching distance of the top two, while Liverpool need to capitalize on their game in hand over the leading pack.
At the bottom, Wolves' trip to Anfield looks ominous for Rob Edwards' side, who have lost ten straight league matches. Meanwhile, Nottingham Forest will be desperate for points to stay clear of the drop zone.
The festive period continues to deliver drama in the Premier League.
