What were the worst moments and biggest sisappointments from Premier League matchweek 26?

From Manchester City's unexpected home defeat to Liverpool's resurgence, Matchday 26 of the Premier League 2024-25 season was rife with surprising and challenging moments for several top-flight teams. Join us as we delve into the most significant low points that defined this weekend's action.

Manchester City's Home Defeat to Liverpool

In a highly anticipated clash at the Etihad Stadium, Manchester City faced a formidable Liverpool side. The match concluded with a 2-0 victory for the visitors, marking a significant setback for Pep Guardiola's men.

Salah's Dominance and City's Struggles

Mohamed Salah was instrumental in Liverpool's triumph, contributing both a goal and an assist. His performance underscored the attacking prowess of Liverpool, while Manchester City's defense appeared vulnerable. Kevin De Bruyne, typically a linchpin in City's midfield, delivered an underwhelming performance, further highlighting the team's challenges.

Guardiola's Tactical Challenges

This defeat intensified scrutiny on Guardiola's tactical approaches. The loss not only dented City's title aspirations but also raised questions about their ability to compete against top-tier teams this season. The team's possession-based style seemed ineffective against Liverpool's dynamic and direct play.

Arsenal's Unexpected Loss to West Ham

Arsenal's ambitions took a hit with a surprising 1-0 defeat at home to West Ham United. This result ended the Gunners' impressive 15-match unbeaten streak and posed significant questions about their consistency.

Offensive Inefficiency and Defensive Lapses

Despite dominating possession and creating multiple opportunities, Arsenal failed to capitalize. The absence of a clinical finisher was evident, as Mikel Merino, deployed in an advanced role, couldn't replicate previous successes. Defensively, the team was caught off-guard by a swift counter-attack, leading to Jarrod Bowen's decisive goal.

Disciplinary Issues

Compounding their woes, Arsenal's Myles Lewis-Skelly received a red card, reducing the team to ten men and hampering their comeback efforts. This disciplinary lapse not only affected the immediate match but also has implications for squad selection in upcoming fixtures.

Manchester United's Narrow Escape Against Everton

Manchester United managed to salvage a 2-2 draw against Everton, but the match was not without controversy and highlighted underlying issues within the squad.

VAR Controversy

In the dying moments, Everton was awarded a penalty after Ashley Young was fouled in the box. However, after a VAR review, the decision was overturned, sparking debates about the consistency and application of VAR protocols. This incident not only influenced the match outcome but also reignited discussions about technology's role in football.

Defensive Vulnerabilities

United's defense once again came under scrutiny, conceding two goals due to lapses in concentration. The partnership of Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt failed to provide the necessary solidity, raising concerns ahead of more challenging fixtures.

Leicester City's Dismal Performance Against Brentford

Leicester City endured a humiliating 4-0 home defeat to Brentford, a result that has intensified pressure on manager Ruud van Nistelrooy.

Defensive Collapse

The Foxes' defense was porous, allowing Brentford to exploit gaps and convert opportunities with ease. This lackluster performance has raised questions about the team's defensive organization and individual player form.

Managerial Uncertainty

With this defeat, Leicester's recent run of poor results has led to speculation about van Nistelrooy's future at the club. The team's inability to compete effectively against mid-table opponents suggests deeper issues that need addressing.

Southampton's Continued Struggles

Southampton's 4-0 loss to Brighton & Hove Albion further cemented their position at the bottom of the table, highlighting the challenges faced by newly promoted teams.

Lack of Premier League Adaptation

The Saints have struggled to adapt to the pace and physicality of the Premier League. Their defensive frailties and lack of cutting edge in attack were evident as Brighton dominated proceedings.

Managerial Challenges

The mounting losses have placed the managerial team under immense pressure to find solutions and instill confidence in a squad that appears out of its depth in the top flight.

Chelsea's Goalkeeping Dilemma

Chelsea's 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa was exacerbated by a critical goalkeeping error, bringing the club's choice between the sticks into question.

Costly Mistake

A misjudgment by the goalkeeper led directly to one of Villa's goals, undermining the team's efforts to secure a positive result. Such errors have been a recurring theme, affecting the club's position in the league standings.

Selection Headache

The inconsistency in goal has prompted discussions about whether a change is necessary to stabilize the defense and restore confidence within the squad.

Newcastle's Nervy Finish Against Nottingham Forest

Despite securing a 4-3 victory over Nottingham Forest, Newcastle United's late-game jitters nearly cost them valuable points.

Squandering a Comfortable Lead

After establishing a 4-1 advantage, Newcastle allowed Forest to score twice in quick succession, leading to a tense finale. This lapse in concentration highlights the team's need for greater mental fortitude to close out matches effectively.