Premier League to Introduce Rare Christmas Day Break in 2025-26 Season as Title and Relegation Races Intensify

The Premier League confirmed a rare holiday break for all 20 teams in the 2025-26 season. ESPN reported no matches will take place on December 25, allowing players a Christmas at home. This unusual scheduling feature was highlighted by David Squires on … the Premier League enjoying a rare Christmas at home, amid intense competition.

Match Report

Fulham secured a 1-0 victory over Nottingham Forest on December 22. Raúl Jiménez converted a late first-half penalty, marking the game’s only goal at Craven Cottage. This result extended Forest’s losing streak at Fulham to four consecutive matches.

Forest now sits one place above the relegation zone in 17th position. They hold a five-point cushion over West Ham, despite recent struggles. The victory provided Fulham with three crucial points before the festive break.

League Position

Arsenal leads the Premier League table with 39 points after 17 games. They hold a strong position with 12 wins, 3 draws, and 2 losses, boasting a +21 goal difference. Manchester City follows closely in second place with 37 points, recording 12 wins, 1 draw, and 4 losses, alongside a +25 goal difference.

Aston Villa occupies third place, collecting 36 points from 17 matches. Their record stands at 11 wins, 3 draws, and 3 losses, with a +9 goal difference. Chelsea is in fourth with 29 points from 8 wins, 5 draws, and 4 losses, holding a +12 goal difference.

Liverpool also has 29 points, achieving 9 wins and 6 draws, with a +3 goal difference. Everton sits in the middle of the table with 24 points, from 7 wins, 3 draws, and 7 losses, carrying a -2 goal difference. Nottingham Forest, despite their recent loss, maintains a position outside the immediate drop zone.

Wolverhampton Wanderers languish at the bottom of the table with only 2 points. They have 0 wins, 2 draws, and 15 losses, with a -28 goal difference. Wolves have lost 10 consecutive matches heading into the Christmas break.

Performance Impact

The title race remains tight at the top after 17 games. Arsenal, Manchester City, and Aston Villa all secured wins, intensifying the competition. ESPN reported Liverpool’s form appears fragile, adding another layer to the top-four battle. Squad depth and set-piece tactics remain key themes for teams across the league.

Nottingham Forest’s position above the relegation zone provides a small buffer. Their five-point lead over West Ham offers some comfort despite the recent loss. Wolverhampton Wanderers face a significant challenge, trailing 17th-place Forest by 16 points. Analysts note Wolves may avoid Derby’s 2007-08 record low of 11 points, but relegation appears likely.

What’s Next

The rare Christmas break allows all Premier League teams a period of rest. Players will spend December 25 at home before resuming intense competition. This pause sets the stage for the post-Christmas fixtures, which traditionally feature a packed schedule.

Teams will return to action with varying objectives. The title contenders will aim to maintain their form, while those in the relegation battle will fight for survival. The Premier League schedule will resume shortly after the holiday, with specific fixture dates to be confirmed.