English Championship, 26th round. Announcement, calendar, match schedule, quotes (Feb. 23, 2024)

From 21 to 26 February will be held matches of the next, 26 round of the championship of England season-2024/25. The tour programme will be opened by Liverpool vs Luton, and the last match of the tour will be the meeting between West Ham and Brentford.

As the 2023-24 Premier League season unfolds, excitement is building around the intense battle for both European qualification and relegation survival. Defending champions Manchester City are leading a hugely competitive battle. Opta's artificial intelligence supercomputer provides match predictions throughout the season, preparing fans for the drama of each game week.

In Week 26, the supercomputer has analysed several key matches, with teams battling opponents at both ends of the standings. Last week, Manchester City, Liverpool and Arsenal confirmed their status as rivals with victories. However, Tottenham's defeat to Wolves was an error in predictions.

There are eight matches to be played next weekend as Chelsea and Liverpool will be involved in the EFL Cup final. "Liverpool have already defeated Luton Town 4-1 in their round 26 match.

More action will take place on Saturday as Arsenal face Newcastle in the decisive evening match. Manchester City's visit to Bournemouth looks promising for the visitors. There are matches on Sunday and Monday that could have a significant impact on both the relegation battle and the fight to get into the top four.

Quick hits of the predictions for Matchday 26:

- "Arsenal will be favourites for the match against Newcastle, who are likely to continue their excellent form. - "Manchester City" becomes a strong contender against "Bournemouth". - "Manchester United" aims for another victory over "Fulham", but expects stubborn resistance. "Aston Villa" takes on "Nottingham Forest" with high hopes after a recent slump in home form. The statistics speak in Villa's favour, highlighting their potential resurgence.

"Brighton are aiming for a place in the EU league as they prepare to challenge Everton. Despite Everton's unimportant form, historic wins hint at the unpredictability of the encounter.

"Crystal Palace" takes on "Burnley" in a crucial encounter dictated by managerial debuts and home advantage, hinting at complexities beyond mere statistical consistency.

"Manchester United are keen to continue their success. Stars such as Rasmus Højlund and Bruno Fernandes will be key against a Fulham side that will be playing under Rodrigo Muniz.

Bournemouth will have a tough task against a dominant Manchester City side. Pep Guardiola's unblemished record against Bournemouth could get a further boost.

"Arsenal will face Newcastle in what promises to be another stern test amid the stress of European competition, emphasising the crucial role of Bukayo Saka for Arsenal."

The Wolves will visit Sheffield United on Sunday, hoping to maintain their position in the top half of the table.

Finally, West Ham will face Brentford on Monday night as they try to avoid further decline. With Lucas Paquette available to return from injury, West Ham will be hoping for an important win against a familiar foe.

At this exciting stage of the league, we will witness challenging matches that will foster team ambitions and player feats, and every moment will go a long way in determining the climax of this remarkable Premier League season.