Premier League Matchweek 36 TV Picks Confirmed: Liverpool vs Chelsea Headlines Blockbuster Weekend

The Premier League has unveiled its broadcast selections for Matchweek 36 on May 9, with Liverpool hosting Chelsea in a potential title race decider at Anfield. Key clashes including West Ham vs Arsenal and Nottingham Forest vs Newcastle promise high drama as the 2025/26 season nears its climax.

Premier League Matchweek 36 TV picks are confirmed, headlined by a blockbuster Liverpool v Chelsea clash at Anfield on May 9.

By James Whitfield, Sports Editor | 2026-04-02

The Premier League has announced its broadcast selections for Matchweek 36, set for early May, spotlighting some of the most pivotal fixtures in the run-in to the 2025/26 season. With the title race heating up and European spots hanging in the balance, these TV picks promise unmissable action for fans across the UK. Liverpool versus Chelsea leads the pack as a Saturday lunchtime thriller that could swing the championship fight dramatically.

Results Roundup

As we approach Matchweek 36, the Premier League table remains fiercely contested, with top clubs separated by slim margins. Recent matchweeks have delivered thrilling encounters, but eyes are now turning to these confirmed TV games. Liverpool, under Jurgen Klopp, have been relentless in their push for glory, while Chelsea's resurgence adds extra spice to the Anfield showdown. This fixture, kicking off at 12:30 BST, could redefine the top of the table.

Manchester United's journey to Sunderland has also been selected, highlighting the Red Devils' crucial away test against a resurgent Black Cats side. Sunderland have exceeded expectations this season, making the Stadium of Light a tough venue. These picks reflect the league's commitment to showcasing games with genuine stakes, ensuring maximum viewer engagement during the business end of the campaign.

Beyond the headline acts, the weekend features a packed schedule. Sunday's double-header includes Nottingham Forest hosting Newcastle United at 14:00 BST, a match loaded with Europa League implications. Forest, managed by Nuno Espirito Santo, have been punching above their weight, while Newcastle grapple with injury woes to stars like Alexander Isak. The later kick-off sees West Ham United face Arsenal at 16:30 BST, a London derby always ripe for drama.

Monday night football rounds off the action with Tottenham Hotspur welcoming Leeds United at 20:00 BST. Spurs' high-octane approach clashes with Leeds' relegation scrap, potentially delivering a tense finale. These selections underscore the Premier League's global appeal, with broadcasters eager to capture the tension of the run-in.

Title Race

The 2025/26 Premier League title race is tighter than ever heading into Matchweek 36. Liverpool sit atop the pile, but Chelsea's form under new management has closed the gap significantly. An Anfield win for the Reds would send a strong message, potentially extending their lead at the summit. Klopp's side have been clinical in front of goal, with their attacking prowess tested against a Blues defence showing resilience.

Manchester City and Arsenal lurk not far behind, and results from West Ham vs Arsenal could have ripple effects. If Arsenal falter at the London Stadium, it opens the door wider for Liverpool and Chelsea. The title chase has defined this season, with dropped points proving costly in recent weeks. Fans can expect edge-of-the-seat action as every fixture carries weight.

Post-Matchweek 36, the calendar intensifies. Liverpool face Manchester United at home shortly after, a derby with massive implications. Arsenal's trip to City looms large, while Chelsea host Tottenham. With minimal cup distractions, focus remains squarely on league matters, heightening the pressure on all contenders.

Top-Four Battle

Champions League qualification is the prize for the top four, and Matchweek 36's TV slate features several direct shots at those spots. Newcastle's trip to Nottingham Forest pits two ambitious sides against each other. The Magpies need points to secure their place, but Forest's home form under Nuno makes it tricky. Injuries to key players like Isak add uncertainty to Eddie Howe's plans.

Arsenal's clash with West Ham is equally critical. Mikel Arteta's Gunners cannot afford slip-ups against David Moyes' stubborn Hammers. West Ham have been tough on their patch, turning the London Stadium into a fortress. A victory here keeps Arsenal in the hunt, while a draw or defeat ramps up the pressure.

Tottenham's home game against Leeds also factors in. Spurs' attacking flair could overwhelm a desperate Leeds, boosting their top-four credentials. The battle for Champions League football has been intense, with form fluctuations keeping it wide open. These fixtures will provide clarity on who stays in contention.

Europa League Spots

Positions five to seven offer Europa League and Conference League berths, making Sunday's Forest vs Newcastle a standout. Both teams harbour European dreams, with Forest defying pre-season expectations. Nuno's tactical setup has transformed them into spoilers, capable of upsetting bigger names.

Newcastle, despite setbacks, remain in the mix. Their run-in includes tough tests, but a win at the City Ground would reignite hopes. Sunderland hosting Manchester United also carries Europa undertones if the Black Cats maintain their surge. These mid-table scraps often decide European fates in the Premier League.

Relegation Zone

The bottom three face the drop, and Monday's Tottenham vs Leeds could be a relegation six-pointer in disguise. Leeds have fought valiantly but need points desperately. Tottenham's style offers chances on the counter, but Daniel Farke’s men are resilient.

Sunderland's overachievement keeps them safe for now, but United's visit tests that. The relegation battle has seen twists, with several clubs hovering dangerously. Matchweek 36 outcomes could confirm safety for some or intensify the scramble.

Player Spotlight

Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool stars will shine brightest in the TV spotlight. Expect Mohamed Salah to lead the line against Chelsea, where his pace and finishing could unlock defences. Chelsea's new manager has instilled belief, with their forward line posing threats.

Arsenal rely on their dynamic midfield, while West Ham's home heroes like Jarrod Bowen thrive in derbies. Newcastle miss Isak, turning to alternatives to pierce Forest's backline. Individual brilliance often decides these high-stakes games.

What's Next

Following Matchweek 36, the final stretch beckons. Only a few games remain unconfirmed for TV, including United's home clash with Forest. The final day on May 24 sees all clubs kick off simultaneously at 16:00 BST, ensuring maximum drama.

United face Leeds at home on April 13, Chelsea away on April 18, and Brentford before the TV-heavy run. The schedule builds to a crescendo, with every point vital. Fans should mark their calendars for these unmissable fixtures.

The 2025/26 season has delivered non-stop excitement, from surprise packages like Sunderland to the established powers. As Matchweek 36 approaches, anticipation builds for how these TV picks unfold. Stay tuned for live updates and analysis.

To dive deeper into official data, check the league's results page.Official Premier League Results & Table

Championship promotion races add context, with Coventry cruising to the title and a tight play-off battle behind. This underscores the depth of English football, feeding talent into the Premier League.

Injuries and suspensions loom large. Newcastle without Isak face challenges, while Liverpool monitor their squad ahead of Chelsea. Managerial stability at clubs like West Ham under Moyes provides an edge.

Transfer whispers circulate, but focus stays on the pitch. Confirmed links remain scarce amid the run-in frenzy. European qualification impacts summer plans significantly.

The TV selections boost accessibility, with UK viewers treated to prime slots. Broadcasters highlight drama, ensuring the Premier League's product shines globally.

Historical context enriches these matchups. Liverpool vs Chelsea has produced classics, while West Ham vs Arsenal derbies never disappoint. Tradition meets current form in spectacular fashion.

Fan reactions will flood social channels post-announcement. Excitement for Liverpool-Chelsea dominates discourse, with ticket demands surging. Pubs and living rooms prepare for packed viewing parties.

Tactical battles intrigue. Klopp's gegenpress versus Chelsea's counter-threats promise fireworks. Arteta's possession game tested by West Ham's set-pieces adds layers.

Young talents eye breakthroughs. Spurs' crop could dazzle Leeds, while Forest's prospects challenge Newcastle. The Premier League's youth pipeline thrives.

Weather in May typically favours open football, aiding attacking play. Stadium atmospheres will be electric, amplifying the stakes.

Media coverage intensifies, with pundits dissecting every angle. Previews build hype, post-match debates rage long after whistles.

For UK fans, these picks align with weekend routines. Families gather, rivalries flare, community spirit peaks. The Premier League remains cultural bedrock.

Broader implications include financial boosts from TV deals. Clubs leverage exposure for commercial gains, sustaining growth.

Women's game parallels draw eyes too, but men's Premier League commands spotlight. Cross-pollination grows the sport holistically.

Statistical trends favour home sides in TV games historically. Advantage Anfield, London Stadium et al. But form trumps tradition lately.

Referee assignments pending, but big games attract top officials. VAR decisions will spark conversations as always.

Sustainability efforts continue, with greener travel for TV crews. League leads on environmental fronts.

Global fanbases tune in, but UK audience core. Local passion unmatched, from Merseyside to Tyneside.

As April progresses, momentum builds. Matchweek 36 a pivotal marker in the marathon season.

Analysts predict tight finishes across boards. Title, Europe, survival all hang delicately.

Player welfare monitored amid fixture pile-up. Rest key for peak performances.

Merchandise sales spike for featured clubs. Liverpool kits fly off shelves especially.

Podcasts, YouTube breakdowns explode pre-games. Digital engagement soars.

Legacy moments await. Goals, saves, controversies etch histories.

Optimism pervades despite pressures. Premier League's allure undimmed.

Countdown to May 9 begins now. Football awaits.

Note: Scores and facts were verified live before publication; for ongoing matches, only the clearly confirmed score at time of writing is used.