The best of the 2024-25 Premier League campaign so far

As the 2024-25 Premier League season approaches its midway point, fans have been treated to a spectacle of exceptional performances, stunning goals, and unforgettable matches.

Liverpool lead the way at the top of the table, with Chelsea and Arsenal in close pursuit.

Champions Manchester City are in the midst of their worst-ever run under Pep Guardiola, meaning the title is more than likely to change hands come May.

It has been a season to forget so far for Southampton, who are rock-bottom in the standings, with just six points and one win.

There have been plenty of highlights after 17 games, so read on to discover our picks for the Player of the Season so far, the best goal, the most memorable match as well as our predictions for 2025.

Where will your team be spending Christmas? 🎄#FestiveFixtures pic.twitter.com/gvP1axTs40

— Premier League (@premierleague) December 23, 2024

Player of the Season: Mohamed Salah

Liverpool’s talisman and star of the season Mohamed Salah has been in scintillating form this season.

He made history on Sunday by becoming the first player to reach double figures in both goals and assists before Christmas in a single Premier League season.

In Liverpool’s emphatic 6-3 victory over Tottenham, the Egyptian provided his 10th assist and scored twice, bringing his season tally to 13 goals.

This achievement also saw him surpass Liverpool legend Billy Liddell, making Salah the club’s fourth all-time leading scorer with 229 goals.

He also overtook Thierry Henry’s Premier League tally in four fewer games, as well as netting his 103rd assist, 10 more than the Frenchman.

It is no surprise that he is receiving a shower of praise heading into the New Year.

The story of yet another match-winning Mo Salah masterclass for Arne Slot’s table-topping @LFC 👑

— Premier League (@premierleague) December 23, 2024

Honourable Mentions: Bukayo Saka and Cole Palmer

Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka continues to impress with his versatility and creativity and has been essential in helping Mikel Arteta’s men keep pace in the title race.

His recent hamstring injury will be a big concern, especially if he is sidelined for a similar period to Martin Odegaard, who missed some crucial games earlier in the season which correlated with Arsenal’s drop in form.

Meanwhile, Chelsea’s Cole Palmer has been a revelation once again, delivering standout performances that have drawn comparisons to legends of the game.

His ability to dictate play and his goal-scoring threat have been pivotal for Chelsea’s strong league position under Enzo Maresca, despite most fans and pundits writing them off before the season began.

Best Goal: Jhon Duran vs. Everton

What. A. Strike. 🤤

Jhon Duran’s long-range effort against Everton has won September’s Guinness Goal of the Month award! #PLAwards | @AVFCOfficial pic.twitter.com/vXs31jRuJZ

— Premier League (@premierleague) October 11, 2024

There have been a catalogue of brilliant strikes so far this season but one stands out from the rest.

Aston Villa’s Jhon Duran scored a sensational goal against Everton that left fans and pundits in awe.

Collecting the ball near the halfway line, Duran showcased his pace and power, dribbling past multiple defenders before unleashing a thunderous strike from outside the box into the top corner.

His impact from the bench for Villa has now earned him a starting spot, benching Ollie Watkins in recent weeks and keeping him there thanks to his remarkable consistency in front of goal.

Honourable Mentions: James Justin and Harvey Barnes

Leicester City’s James Justin scored a remarkable goal against Arsenal, that deserves a mention.

The defender cut inside from the left flank before curling a sublime effort into the far corner.

Similarly, Newcastle United’s Harvey Barnes netted a similar effort with his right foot against Wolves, showcasing exceptional technique and precision and proving to Eddie Howe that perhaps he deserves more minutes than he is getting.

Best Game of the Season: Tottenham Hotspur 3-6 Liverpool

Liverpool are four points clear of Chelsea after a 6-3 win over Spurs! ⭐️ pic.twitter.com/s6M7t0cCAw

— Premier League (@premierleague) December 22, 2024

The clash between Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool was a nine-goal thriller that proved why so many regard the Premier League as the best in the world.

Liverpool’s attacking quartet was in devastating form, with Salah and Luis Diaz each scoring twice.

Despite Tottenham’s all-out-attack approach, Liverpool’s relentless aggression helped them secure a memorable 6-3 victory, cementing their position at the top of the league.

Honorable Mentions: Tottenham Hotspur 3-4 Chelsea and Newcastle United 3-3 Liverpool

Tottenham’s 3-4 loss to Chelsea was another exhilarating encounter, with both teams exchanging leads in a match filled with attacking flair, which at this point, is unsurprising from Ange Posteoclgou’s men.

Newcastle’s 3-3 draw with Liverpool showcased end-to-end action, with late goals ensuring a share of the spoils in a pulsating contest and is also worthy of a mention.

Predictions for 2025

Having looked behind at what has been, we can make some smart predictions about what might happen in the remaining months of the campaign.

Get in 💪🔴 #TOTLIV pic.twitter.com/abECvx8l3V

— Liverpool FC (@LFC) December 22, 2024

Premier League Winners:

Liverpool’s current form positions them as favourites to clinch the Premier League title.

Their attacking depth and Salah’s brilliance could see them outpace their rivals as we head into 2025.

However, of the last five times Liverpool have been top at Christmas, they have only gone on to win the title once.

Arsenal have been top in each of the previous two campaigns, but have failed to go on to lift the trophy.

Top Four Finishers:

1. Liverpool
2. Arsenal
3. Chelsea
4. Manchester City

Arsenal and Chelsea are expected to secure Champions League spots, with both clubs displaying consistency and resilience.

Chelsea’s investment in young talents like Cole Palmer has paid dividends, while Arsenal’s squad depth has been instrumental in their campaign.

Manchester City are nowhere near their best, but you would still back them to make the Champions League places, especially when they have a fully fit squad and the January window to strengthen.

Thanks for your support 🩵 pic.twitter.com/CTfWIMC027

— Manchester City (@ManCity) December 21, 2024

Relegation Candidates:

The battle to avoid relegation is an interesting one, with newly promoted sides Ipswich Town and Southampton struggling to adapt to the Premier League’s demands.

Leicester are also facing their challenges, with defensive frailties contributing to their precarious position. However, fans will be backing Ruud van Nistelrooy to turn their fortunes around.

Wolves are in a similar position, but a 3-0 win at the weekend could be the spark they need to move up and away from the drop zone.

Domestic Cup Winners:

• FA Cup: With the third round set to kick-off soon, the FA Cup is up for grabs. Manchester United always fancy themselves for a run, while the likes of Tottenham, Arsenal, Newcastle and Liverpool will all back themselves.
• EFL Cup: Liverpool are the strong favourites to retain their League Cup crown but with Spurs, Arsenal and Newcastle alongside them in the semi-finals, it really is anyone’s game.