The Premier League returns after the international break with Gameweek 8 promising dramatic encounters, tactical intrigue, and critical Fantasy Premier League (FPL) decisions. Fans searching for "Premier League Gameweek 8 fixtures 2025" or "Liverpool vs Manchester United preview" will find a jam-packed slate featuring rivalries, title races, and form battles that define the season's early rhythm.

Liverpool vs Manchester United: Old Rivalries Renewed

The headline fixture of Premier League Gameweek 8 pits Liverpool against Manchester United at Old Trafford. Liverpool have stumbled recently but remain formidable under Arne Slot. Mohamed Salah, who has scored an impressive 134 FPL points against United throughout his career, is again one of the top FPL captain picks Gameweek 8, second only to Erling Haaland in the captaincy polls with 7% of votes. United, meanwhile, enter the clash desperately needing consistency. Bruno Fernandes' creative spark and Marcus Rashford's pace will be vital if Erik ten Hag's men are to upset Liverpool's 79% odds of at least one goal.

Arsenal vs Fulham: London Clash with Title Implications

As Arsenal continue their strong domestic form, their London derby against Fulham offers another chance to prove their title credentials. With an xG of 10.91 and 78 shots inside the box, Arsenal rank third in goal probability for Gameweek 8, carrying 82% odds of scoring at least once. Mikel Arteta's side, led by Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard, will aim to control possession and capitalize on Fulham's inconsistent defensive record. Arsenal's David Raya remains a top FPL goalkeeper pick, while defenders like Saliba and Gabriel continue to anchor one of England's best backlines.

Manchester City vs Everton: Haaland's Redemption Game

Manchester City vs Everton is another highlight for prediction and fantasy content. Pep Guardiola's champions lead the league in xG (9.75) over the past six fixtures. Erling Haaland, topping the FPL captaincy poll with 71%, has produced 22 shots in the box, 11 big chances, and an xG of 5.72 over his last six games—making him the standout best FPL captain Gameweek 8 choice. City's ultra-attacking structure gives them 86% odds of scoring and a 40% probability of netting 2+ goals at home versus an Everton side that has struggled with consistency.

Tottenham vs Aston Villa: Tactical Brilliance Expected

Tottenham vs Aston Villa brings a battle of philosophies—Ange Postecoglou's attacking football meets Unai Emery's calculated defensive structure. Spurs have been revitalized through the midfield creativity of James Maddison and the finishing of Richarlison, while Villa rely on Ollie Watkins' lethal form in transition. FPL-wise, Douglas Luiz remains a strong differential option due to penalty duties and his advanced positioning—ideal for those looking for FPL differentials Gameweek 8.

Newcastle vs West Ham: Defensive Reliability Remains Key

Newcastle have emerged as one of the best FPL defenses in the Premier League. Eddie Howe's side boast five clean sheets from seven matches, anchored by Nick Pope and Kieran Trippier. The Magpies, facing a West Ham side with only a 65% chance of scoring, are prime targets for fantasy managers looking for safe defensive returns. Meanwhile, Jarrod Bowen continues to be one of the most consistent FPL midfielders in the league, registering an xG of 0.66 over his last six appearances.

Best FPL Picks and Differentials for Gameweek 8

Fantasy football strategy dominates discussion ahead of this weekend's matches, with FPL managers weighing premium and differential choices.

Top FPL Captain Picks Gameweek 8: Haaland (71%), Salah (64%), Saka (52%).

Differential Picks to Watch: Antoine Semenyo (xG 2.69), Douglas Luiz, and Jarrod Bowen all carry explosive upside.

Value Defenses: Arsenal, Manchester City, and Newcastle remain the strongest clean sheet odds.

Goalkeeper Options: David Raya and Giorgi Mamardashvili are among the most budget-friendly yet effective assets.

Other Key Fixtures to Watch

Chelsea vs Nottingham Forest: Chelsea look to build on their momentum after a dramatic win over Liverpool, while Forest remain winless in nine matches.

Brighton vs Newcastle: Two mid-table sides with nearly identical records meet in a contest that could swing either way.

Tottenham vs Villa and Liverpool vs Man United headline the Sunday schedule, ensuring a weekend filled with excitement and high-stakes competition.

Accurate Predictions: Gameweek 8 Scorelines

Nottingham Forest 0–2 Chelsea

Brighton 1–1 Newcastle

Arsenal 2–0 Fulham

Man City 3–0 Everton

Tottenham 2–2 Aston Villa

Liverpool 2–1 Man United

These predictions align with current form, statistical models, and fixture difficulty ratings heading into the weekend.

Final Word: Gameweek 8 Ready to Explode

As managers finalize transfers and captain choices before the Saturday deadline, Fantasy Premier League Gameweek 8 offers endless intrigue. From Liverpool's revenge bid against Manchester United to Arsenal's defensive excellence and City's relentless attack, this round of Premier League fixtures is poised to deliver drama and crucial fantasy outcomes. The blend of precision, rivalry, and unpredictability ensures that Premier League Gameweek 8 2025/26 will stand as one of the defining weekends of the campaign.