Dec 20, (V7N) - The Premier League weekend promises high-stakes drama as Manchester City look to arrest their slide, Chelsea aim for the top spot, and Liverpool face a stern test at Tottenham. Here's a closer look at the key storylines:

Pep Guardiola Under Pressure

Defending champions Manchester City travel to Aston Villa on Saturday in dire need of a turnaround. With eight defeats in their past 11 matches across all competitions, City find themselves in unfamiliar territory.

Pep Guardiola, known for his tactical brilliance, has taken responsibility for the team's struggles, including last week’s 2-1 derby defeat to Manchester United. Fifth in the table and nine points behind leaders Liverpool, City’s hopes of a fifth straight title are fading.

Villa, in seventh, have shown flashes of brilliance this season and will be eager to capitalize on City’s fragile form.

Liverpool’s Slot Faces Tottenham Test

Arne Slot’s Liverpool, unbeaten in their last two league games but held to draws against Newcastle and Fulham, face a tricky trip to Tottenham.

Liverpool, once nine points clear at the top, now risk being overtaken by a surging Chelsea, who play earlier on Sunday. Despite their recent stumbles, Liverpool remain title favorites, but Spurs’ attacking style under Ange Postecoglou could test their resolve.

Chelsea's Chase for Top Spot

Chelsea, under new boss Enzo Maresca, have rediscovered their form with five consecutive league wins. A sixth victory against struggling Everton on Sunday could temporarily take them to the top of the table before Liverpool’s match.

Everton, deep in the relegation zone, will be desperate for a result, but Chelsea’s momentum makes them heavy favorites.

Wolves Seek New Manager Bounce

Relegation-threatened Wolves visit fellow strugglers Leicester City with new manager Vitor Pereira at the helm. Wolves sit 19th, five points from safety, and face a tough fixture list after this match.

Leicester, led by Ruud van Nistelrooy, are also in trouble, with last week's 4-0 defeat at Newcastle highlighting their vulnerabilities. Sunday's clash at the King Power Stadium is a must-win for both sides.

Fixtures

Saturday

Aston Villa v Manchester City (1230 GMT)

Brentford v Nottingham Forest

Ipswich v Newcastle

West Ham v Brighton

Crystal Palace v Arsenal (1730 GMT)

Sunday

Everton v Chelsea

Fulham v Southampton

Leicester v Wolves

Manchester United v Bournemouth

Tottenham v Liverpool (1630 GMT)

Will Manchester City bounce back? Can Chelsea or Liverpool seize the top spot? The weekend action is set to provide answers.