Chelsea’s faltering end-of-year form continued into 2025 as they drew 1-1 with Crystal Palace in one of their opening five Premier League games at 3pm on Saturday afternoon.
Cole Palmer put Enzo Maresca’s side ahead in the first half, thanks to Jadon Sancho’s assist, but Jean-Philippe Mateta’s 82nd minute equalizer ensured the Blues are now without a win in four league games.
The point could prove vital for Oliver Glasner’s side, who moved six points clear of the relegation zone.
But if Chelsea hope to put the 2024 end of business firmly behind them, Manchester City will be looking to continue theirs for as long as possible.
Pep Guardiola’s side picked up league wins for the first time since October after managing to beat West Ham 4-1 at the Etihad.
Vladimir Coufalo’s own goal sent City on their way before Erling Haaland’s goal and Phil Foden’s strike put the hosts in control.
FULL TIME | Start 2025 with a win! 👊
🩵 4-1 ⚒️ #ManCity | @okx pic.twitter.com/6QLROahKiy
— Manchester City (@ManCity) January 4, 2025
Niclas Fullkrug pulled one back for the Hammers, but it proved to be little more than a consolation as the pressure mounts on manager Julen Lopetegui.
City are closing in on two points from the top four.
It was another miserable afternoon for bottom side Southampton, who were beaten 5-0 by Brentford at St. Mary’s.
Kevin Schade opened the scoring for the Bees. The Saints held it 1-0 for most of the hour before Bryan Mbeumo hit a quick-fire double.
From there the floodgates opened and Keane Lewis-Potter and Yoane Wissa added a fourth and fifth in stoppage time to move Thomas Frank’s side up to tenth.
On the other hand, signs of Aston Villa’s revival are starting to show as they emerged 2-1 winners against Leicester.
First win in the new year 🤝
— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) January 4, 2025
Ross Barkley and Leon Bailey scored for Villa as they recorded their first Premier League double against the Foxes since 2004.
Stephy Mavididi had earlier equalized for Ruud van Nistelrooy’s side, but the Dutchman’s job of keeping Leicester in the Premier League looks increasingly challenging.
The Foxes have now lost five league games in a row and eight of their last ten.
David Brooks’ goal proved to be enough as Bournemouth saw off Everton 1-0 at the Vitality Stadium.
The result kept the Cherries in seventh place, while the Toffees remained in 16th place.
