Round 20 of the Premier League promises to create many changes, as the championship race, top 4 and relegation battle simultaneously enter a key stage.
After 19 rounds, Arsenal is temporarily leading with 45 points, 4 points ahead of Manchester City. However, the dense schedule and difficult matches in this round may cause the situation to change direction after only one weekend.
Man City will face Chelsea in a match considered the great battle of the round. City is second with 41 points, possessing the strongest attack in the league (43 goals), while Chelsea, although ranked 5th, always has the potential to explode. A victory not only helps Pep Guardiola's team put direct pressure on Arsenal, but is also an affirmation of their position as the top candidate for the throne.
Meanwhile, Arsenal will play away at Bournemouth. Although the "Gunners" are rated higher, Bournemouth is always a difficult opponent when playing at Vitality. In the context that Man City is closely following behind and is maintaining high form, Mikel Arteta's team understands that they are not allowed to stumble if they do not want to lose the advantage in the championship race.
In the pursuing group, Aston Villa and Liverpool also face problems that are not simple at all. Villa welcomes Nottingham Forest, a team struggling in the bottom group, thereby having the opportunity to consolidate their position in the top 3. Liverpool plays away against Fulham - an organized opponent and not easy to bully - especially when The Kop still lack stability through each round.
The top 4 race continues to heat up with the Leeds - Manchester United match. The "Red Devils" are currently ranked 6th, only behind Chelsea in goal difference, so the goal of 3 points is almost mandatory if they do not want to drop in the Champions League race.
Tottenham and Newcastle also need victory when they meet Sunderland and Crystal Palace respectively to maintain their ability to keep up with the leading group.
