The Premier League witnessed a series of compelling clashes this Sunday, December 14, 2025, with the highly anticipated Tyne-Wear derby between Sunderland and Newcastle taking center stage. Crystal Palace hosted Manchester City in another key fixture, while other matches across the league also provided plenty of talking points.

Sunderland vs. Newcastle: A Tense Return

The Tyne-Wear derby between Sunderland and Newcastle marked its return to the Premier League after nearly a decade. The Stadium of Light hosted a charged atmosphere as Sunderland looked to extend their unbeaten run against their rivals. Before the match, Sunderland, who are newcomers to the league, were slightly ahead of Newcastle by one point.

Regis Le Bris, Sunderland's manager, emphasized the importance of composure and intensity for his team. The starting lineup saw three changes with Reinildo, Chemsdine Talbi, and Brian Brobbey included in the squad. Newcastle, without the injured Joelinton and Nick Pope, started Lewis Miley. Eddie Howe, Newcastle's manager, acknowledged the significance of the match and stressed the need for his players to maintain their level-headedness.

The game began with Newcastle pressing high, aiming to disrupt Sunderland's rhythm. Sunderland's Brian Brobbey and Newcastle's Dan Burn were involved in a physical battle early in the match. Sunderland had spent four seasons in the third tier of English football since the last time these two teams played a league match.

Crystal Palace vs. Manchester City: Clash at Selhurst Park

Crystal Palace faced Manchester City at Selhurst Park, with City aiming to respond to Arsenal's win against Wolves. Pep Guardiola, who was present in the dugout despite a personal issue, saw his team come into the game after four straight victories in all competitions. Rodri was still missing for Manchester City, with Mateo Kovacic and John Stones also out. Tijjani Reijnders replaced Jeremy Doku in the starting XI, the only change from the team that beat Real Madrid in the Champions League.

Oliver Glasner, the Crystal Palace manager, made five changes to the team that played Shelbourne in the Conference League. Ismaila Sarr and Jean-Philippe Mateta returned to the starting lineup. Crystal Palace had a disrupted preparation, arriving late from Dublin after their Conference League game.

Manchester City were looking for revenge after Crystal Palace defeated them in the FA Cup final. However, Crystal Palace has been much better away from home this season and their two victories in the last 20 iterations of this fixture were both at the Etihad Stadium.

Around the Premier League

In other Premier League news, Liverpool secured a 2-0 victory over Brighton, with Mohamed Salah marking his return with a goal involvement. Chelsea ended their winless run by defeating Everton 2-0. Arsenal relied on two own goals to secure a late win against Wolves.

The Premier League continues to deliver drama and excitement, with the title race and battle for European qualification intensifying.