Arsenal gains an advantage as the Premier League revises Manchester City's last six fixtures.
On 28 April 2026, the English Premier League confirmed the previously problematic schedule for Manchester City. The "Citizens" are still competing for three trophies this season, having already secured one—the Carabao Cup—and are remaining in contention for the Premier League and the FA Cup.
Recently, the Premier League scheduled Manchester City's home match against Crystal Palace for Wednesday, 13 May, postponed from the original 22 March date. This change is due to Manchester City's progression to the Carabao Cup final. Meanwhile, Palace have consistently had UEFA Conference League commitments on Thursdays after reaching the semifinals.
Additionally, the away game at Bournemouth originally set for 17 May was moved to Tuesday, 19 May. This follows Manchester City's need to contest the FA Cup final against Chelsea on Saturday, 16 May.
Such fixture changes could significantly influence the Premier League title race's closing stages against Arsenal. Manchester City will face four matches within 11 days, starting from the Crystal Palace game on 13 May through to their final match against Aston Villa on 24 May.
4 May 2026 (Premier League - Away) Everton
9 May 2026 (Premier League - Home) Brentford
13 May 2026 (Premier League - Home) Crystal Palace
16 May 2026 (FA Cup Final) Chelsea
19 May 2026 (Premier League - Away) Bournemouth
24 May 2026 (Premier League - Home) Aston Villa
1. Arsenal (34 matches) 73 points (Goal difference +38)
2. Manchester City (33 matches) 70 points (Goal difference +37)