Premier League legend Alan Shearer has delivered his expert forecasts for the upcoming weekend's pivotal top-flight fixtures, with a blockbuster Manchester derby taking centre stage.
The action resumes after an FA Cup hiatus, and all eyes will be on Old Trafford where interim boss Michael Carrick faces a monumental first test against rivals Manchester City.
Shearer's Key Match Predictions
Analysing the weekend's headline fixtures for Betfair, Shearer provided his insights. On the Manchester derby, he said: "What an amazing game to have as your first in charge for Michael Carrick. I've been really impressed with Man City." He anticipates a tight, low-scoring affair but believes Pep Guardiola's side will have too much quality, predicting an away win.
Focusing on another crucial London clash, Shearer expects Chelsea's new head coach Liam Rosenior to start his league tenure with a victory against a surprisingly high-flying Brentford. "Brentford have had an unbelievable season so far... They'll make it difficult but with Chelsea being at home... I think they'll have too much," he stated, backing a home win.
Arsenal's Tough Task and Other Fixtures
League leaders Arsenal face a tricky trip to the City Ground to play Nottingham Forest. Shearer doesn't foresee a simple victory for Mikel Arteta's men. "I don't think it will be a routine win for Arsenal because I think Forest will make it really difficult," he cautioned, but ultimately tipped the Gunners to secure an away win through set-pieces and superior play.
Elsewhere, Shearer predicts:
- A straightforward home win for Liverpool against Burnley to continue their unbeaten run.
- A draw between Crystal Palace and a resilient Sunderland.
- A vital home victory for Tottenham in their pressure-cooker clash with West Ham.
- An away win for Newcastle at Wolves, albeit without huge confidence.
- A draw in Monday's fixture between Brighton and Bournemouth.
The weekend's action kicks off with the Manchester derby on Saturday lunchtime, January 17, 2026, concluding with Monday night's game on the south coast.
