Arsenal oppose Crystal Palace’s ‘unfair’ request to play Carabao Cup tie on 23 December

This weekend's Premier League matches promise to be exciting, with key players and teams in focus. Arsenal may need to keep an eye on Burnley's impressive full-back duo, Kyle Walker and Quilindschy Hartman, who have been standout performers this season. Meanwhile, Fulham and Crystal Palace are facing challenges, adding to the competitive atmosphere of the league. These matchups are crucial as teams vie for points and positioning in the standings, making it a weekend to watch for football fans.

Crystal Palace is gearing up for a challenging December, as they may need to play five matches in just 11 days following their advancement to the Carabao Cup quarter-finals. This intense schedule could see them facing two games within a mere 54 hours. The club is currently in talks with the EFL to manage the scheduling effectively. This situation highlights the demanding nature of football fixtures and the need for strategic planning to ensure player fitness and performance.

Max Dowman's journey from Billericay to making history with Arsenal is an inspiring tale of passion and determination. Growing up in a family of Arsenal supporters, Dowman was destined for greatness when he was discovered playing for Billericay Town's youth team. His recent appearance at the Emirates Stadium marks a significant milestone not just for him, but also for the community that nurtured his talent. This story resonates with many young athletes who dream of making it big, showcasing how local clubs can play a pivotal role in shaping future stars.

In the latest episode of the Football Weekly Extra podcast, the panel discusses Liverpool's recent struggles as they face another defeat, while Arsenal continues to shine with a solid performance. The conversation also includes a preview of the upcoming Premier League matches and insights from Ewan Murray about the Scottish football scene. This matters because it highlights the shifting dynamics in the league and offers fans a deeper understanding of the teams' performances.

Michelle Agyemang, the promising 19-year-old forward for England, faces a significant setback after rupturing her anterior cruciate ligament during a match against Australia. Arsenal has confirmed that she will not return to play this season, which is disappointing news for both her and the team. However, Agyemang remains optimistic, stating on social media that her recovery starts now and she intends to come back stronger than ever. This injury highlights the physical challenges athletes face and the resilience required to overcome them.

The Carabao Cup quarter-final draw has set up exciting matchups, including Arsenal facing Crystal Palace and Manchester City taking on Brentford. Chelsea managed a thrilling 4-3 victory over Wolves, while Arsenal secured their spot by overcoming Brighton. Tottenham, however, faced disappointment with a 2-0 loss to Newcastle. These matches are significant as they highlight the competitive nature of the tournament and the potential for upsets, keeping fans engaged as teams vie for a place in the semi-finals.

Manchester City finally broke through Swansea City's tough defense in the Carabao Cup, thanks to Omar Marmoush's stunning goal in the 77th minute, followed by Rayan Cherki sealing the victory in stoppage time. This win not only advances City to the quarter-finals but also marks a significant moment for Marmoush, who scored his first goal of the season. It's a crucial boost for the team as they prepare to face Brentford next.

Crystal Palace's Ismaïla Sarr scored twice, sending a young Liverpool side out of the Carabao Cup. This defeat raises concerns for Liverpool manager Arne Slot, who opted for a weakened team ahead of crucial matches against Aston Villa and Real Madrid. The loss could signal deeper issues for Liverpool as they face a challenging schedule.

The Breeders' Cup 2025 kicked off in California, showcasing thrilling horse racing action on its first day. This prestigious event not only highlights the best in the sport but also marks a significant moment for fans and participants alike, especially with the spotlight on legendary jockey Frankie Dettori as he navigates his future in racing. The excitement surrounding the races and the potential for new records adds to the event's allure, making it a must-watch for enthusiasts.

Liverpool's head coach Arne Slot has expressed his commitment to maintaining the team's attacking style despite facing a challenging period, with six defeats in their last seven matches. He acknowledges the team's struggles but emphasizes the need to improve defensively ahead of the upcoming match against Aston Villa. This situation is significant as it highlights the pressure on Liverpool to turn their performance around, especially considering it's their worst domestic run in 72 years.

Arsenal has strongly opposed Crystal Palace's request to reschedule their Carabao Cup quarter-final match to December 23. Manager Mikel Arteta argues that it would be unfair for both teams to play two matches within just over 48 hours, especially given the demanding schedule of three games in five days. This situation highlights the challenges teams face during the busy holiday season and raises questions about player welfare and scheduling fairness in competitive football.

Ruben Amorim, the head coach of Manchester United, has expressed his concerns about his job security following the team's defeat in the Europa League final against Tottenham. He reflected on the challenges of losing multiple games and how it has affected his confidence in his position. This admission highlights the pressure coaches face in high-stakes environments and raises questions about the future of the team under his leadership.

Kieffer Moore's stunning second-half hat-trick led Wrexham to a thrilling 3-2 victory over Coventry, ending their unbeaten streak in the league. This match was significant as Coventry was on the verge of setting a club record with their seventh consecutive league win. Moore's performance not only showcased his talent but also highlighted Wrexham's resilience, making this a memorable clash in the Championship.

Charles Barkley has expressed his approval of ESPN's decision to leave 'Inside the NBA' unchanged, alleviating concerns that had been brewing for nearly a year. This decision is significant as it maintains the show's beloved format and chemistry, which fans have come to appreciate. Barkley's endorsement highlights the importance of preserving successful sports programming, ensuring that viewers continue to enjoy the unique insights and entertainment that 'Inside the NBA' provides.