Boxing Day: Premier League also celebrates Christmas with football on the schedule

This is a sentence that has become a saying over the years. Because it was spoken by Sir Alex Ferguson, a legend, and because it is true: "You don’t win the Premier League on Boxing Day, but you can lose it."

Arsenal, Manchester City and Aston Villa, separated by just three points, have therefore all been warned. Staying sharp over the festive period will be essential to avoid sloppy football and to remain in touch with the top spot.

Ahead of this 18th matchday, one week before the 19th which will take place from January 1st, Golden Vegas Sport presents the stakes as well as everything you need to know to bet as wisely as possible on the title race.

Arsenal must get back on track

So it’s not only in the Jupiler Pro League that Boxing Day matters. Of course, we didn’t invent anything. England introduced this tradition more than a century ago, back in 1871! The whole country takes advantage of this public holiday to go to the stadium.

While some observers will be focusing on the Africa Cup of Nations, which runs from Sunday until January 18, most eyes will be on what’s happening across the Channel.

Starting with Arsenal vs Brighton. A month ago, many believed this could finally be the year for the Gunners, who haven’t been champions for 21 years, since 2004. But the lead built by Mikel Arteta’s side has melted away. Still top of the table, will they keep that position heading into the New Year?

*Odds may change. Event ends on December 27 at 4:00 PM

Guardiola has regained his authority at City

Those who bet live will tell you: there is little point in opposing Manchester City lately. Guardiola’s men have recorded three league wins in a row, all by a 3–0 scoreline.

A complete contrast with last season. The Citizens were unrecognisable, being eliminated from the Champions League as early as the play-offs after the league phase. At that point, questions were even raised about whether the Catalan coach would remain in charge.

This season has brought renewed momentum, as City sit just two points behind the leaders. They now travel to Nottingham Forest, who are struggling in the league and hovering near the relegation zone. Enough to put even more pressure on Arsenal from City.

*Odds may change. Event ends on December 27 at 1:30 PM

The test for Aston Villa

Anyone who backed Aston Villa as title contenders at the start of the season can raise their hand — or take part in our end-of-year tournament, which guarantees a shot at the top prize. The team coached by Unai Emery failed to win any of their first six matches.

Since then, the club based near Birmingham has been on a remarkable run, with ten consecutive wins across all competitions. The schedule is now becoming more demanding. Before travelling to Arsenal, Emiliano Martinez’s teammates head to Chelsea.

You can follow their journey throughout the season on our blog to see whether they can pull off a Leicester 2016 and snatch the title against all odds. For now, a win at Stamford Bridge would further legitimise a dream that is increasingly starting to look like a realistic possibility.

*Odds may change. Event ends on December 27 at 6:30 PM

Golden Vegas Sport didn’t wait for the end-of-year holidays to be generous. Enjoy a BetXtra when betting live on Boxing Day in the Premier League and the Jupiler Pro League.