Who are the favourites to win the Premier League?
As the Premier League 2024/25 season inches closer to its thrilling conclusion, the race for the championship is heating up. Currently, Liverpool, the reigning champions of European club football, are leading the pack. Despite a surprising FA Cup loss to struggling Championship side Plymouth Argyle, their performance in the league has been stellar. Liverpool’s dominance is evident, with 56 points from 23 games played, boasting a six-point advantage over their closest rivals, Arsenal. The Reds have won 17 games, drawn five, and suffered only one defeat. Their goal difference (+35) is the best in the league, having scored 56 goals and conceded just 21. This combination of form and consistency has solidified their position as the bookmakers’ clear favorites to win the title.
Current League Standing
Liverpool’s current position at the top of the Premier League table is a testament to their strong start and consistent performance throughout the season. With 56 points, they are six points ahead of Arsenal, who are in second place. The Reds’ remarkable record of 17 wins, five draws, and just one loss makes them a formidable force. Their offensive and defensive stats are the best in the league, having scored 56 goals and conceded only 21. In contrast, Arsenal, led by Mikel Arteta, have won 14 games, drawn eight, and lost twice. While their +27 goal difference and 49 goals scored are commendable, they are inferior to Liverpool’s numbers. This gap in form and performance has led to a consensus among online bookmakers that Liverpool are the team to beat.
Bookmakers’ Odds
The odds provided by top-rated sports betting brands, as featured on AskGamblers UK, offer a clear picture of the current title race. Liverpool are the overwhelming favorites to win the Premier League, with an implied probability rate of 80% and fractional odds of 1/4. This translates to -400 in the American/moneyline odds format and 1.25 in decimal odds. Arsenal, currently in second place, is the second odds-on favorite with the same 80% implied probability rate but longer fractional odds of 7/2, equivalent to +350 in American/moneyline odds and 4.50 in decimal odds. The bookmakers are not backing Chelsea, Manchester City, or Nottingham Forest to take the top spot, with each of these teams having an implied probability rate of just 1%. Their fractional odds of 100/1, or +10,000 in American/moneyline odds and 101.00 in decimal odds, reflect the slim chances of these clubs overtaking the leaders. At this stage, it seems that Arsenal is the only team with a realistic chance of catching Liverpool.
Upcoming Fixtures
The next few weeks will be crucial for both Liverpool and Arsenal as they face a series of important matches. Liverpool’s schedule is relatively modest in terms of the league position of their opponents, but it’s not without its challenges. On February 12th, they will travel to Everton, a team that has surprisingly won three consecutive league games under the returning management of David Moyes. The Merseyside Derby at Goodison Park, set to be the final ever at this historic venue, promises to be a highly charged and emotional affair. Following this, Liverpool will host Wolves, who are currently 17th in the league, on February 16th, and then travel to play Aston Villa, currently 8th in the league, on February 19th.
Arsenal’s upcoming fixtures are also significant. On February 15th, they travel to Leicester City, who are 18th in the table. This away match could be a test of their resolve, especially given Leicester’s recent unpredictability. After that, the Gunners will host West Ham, 15th in the league, on February 22nd. The final match in this sequence is a trip to Nottingham Forest, who are in 3rd place and chasing a top-four finish. These matches will be pivotal for Arsenal as they look to close the gap on Liverpool and maintain their title ambitions.
Historical Context and Significance
If Liverpool can clinch the Premier League title this season, it will be a historic moment for the club. They will equal Manchester United’s record of 20 top-flight titles, a feat that has eluded them since the Premier League was formed in 1992. Liverpool’s last league title was in the 2019/20 season, a defining moment in the club’s recent history. For Arsenal, the stakes are equally high. They have not won the Premier League since the 2003/04 season, a period marked by near misses and intense competition from Manchester City and other top teams. Mikel Arteta’s side will be determined to avoid a third consecutive runners-up finish and to secure their first title in over two decades.
Final Thoughts
To sum up, even the most optimistic Arsenal fan will concede that it’s Liverpool’s lead to lose. The Reds’ consistent form, coupled with their superior goal difference and fewer losses, places them in a strong position. However, football is a game of surprises, and the run-in promises to be a fascinating watch. Arsenal, driven by their recent performances and the determination to finally break through, are not out of the running just yet. The upcoming fixtures for both teams will be crucial, and every point could make a difference. If you decide to place a wager on the Premier League title race or other matches, remember to gamble responsibly. Stick to licensed and regulated sportsbooks, set deposit limits, and use safer gambling tools to help you stay within your budget. Conduct thorough research to give your bets the best chance of success. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a casual fan, the race to the Premier League title is shaping up to be a thrilling spectacle.
