Premier League Round 21: Manchester's teams falter, Liverpool continues revival

Round 21 of the 2025/26 Premier League ended with numerous eye-catching outcomes, with several big teams once more failing to secure points.

MU disappoints again, Sesko shines in Burnley draw

In the early hours of January 8, Manchester United drew 2-2 at Burnley, despite Benjamin Sesko delivering a brilliant performance with a brace, ending an 11-game goal drought. However, a fragile defense once again cost the "Red Devils" a victory, while Burnley extended their winless streak to 12 matches. This was MU's fourth draw in their last six games. This result further dims the Old Trafford side's hopes of securing a top-four finish.

Man City stumbles, Mitoma spoils Etihad

Following MU's footsteps, Man City was held to a 1-1 draw by Brighton at home, marking the third consecutive draw for Pep Guardiola's team, an unprecedented streak in the Spanish coach's career. Erling Haaland opened the scoring from the penalty spot , but Kaoru Mitoma responded with a classy finish in the second half. This result denied Man City the chance to close the gap on Arsenal and highlighted defensive instability caused by injuries and squad rotation.

Scoreless Emirates showdown, Arsenal fails to break away

The headline match of Round 21 between Arsenal and Liverpool ended 0-0, in a tense contest lacking sharpness in front of goal. For the first time in over a decade, Arsenal failed to score at home in the Premier League, ending a streak of seven consecutive wins. Liverpool maintained a 10-game unbeaten run, staying in the top four. This result keeps the title race intense as Arsenal has yet to create a comfortable lead.

Chelsea and Tottenham deepen crisis

Chelsea suffered a 1-2 comeback loss to Fulham, in a game where they had to play with ten men early after Marc Cucurella's red card. Despite creating many chances and briefly equalizing, "The Blues" fell to a decisive goal by Harry Wilson, extending their winless streak to five games. Meanwhile, Tottenham lost 2-3 to Bournemouth, conceding a goal in the 90+5 minute that dropped the "Spurs" to 14th place. This was Spurs' third defeat in their last six matches, plunging them into a severe crisis of form and morale.

Brentford shines, Igor Thiago lifts team into top 5

The biggest highlight of Round 21 was Brentford, who thrashed Sunderland 3-0 to rise to fifth place in the standings. Striker Igor Thiago continued his impressive form with a brace, bringing his season tally to 16 goals, a new record for a Brazilian player in a Premier League season. This victory confirms Brentford's strong competitiveness despite losing several key forwards.