Tottenham Hotspur host Liverpool in a crucial Premier League clash at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at 5:30 PM GMT (17:30 GMT). Defending champions Liverpool will look to build momentum, while Spurs aim to arrest a slump in form.

Match Overview

Both sides are under significant pressure as the season reaches a critical stage. Liverpool manager Arne Slot, in his second season at Anfield, is dealing with the fallout from a public dispute with star forward Mohamed Salah and inconsistent league performances. Tottenham boss Thomas Frank faces mounting scrutiny following recent defeats and growing speculation over his future at North London.

Fans can follow Al Jazeera Sport coverage from 17:00 GMT for build-up and live commentary.

Mohamed Salah Saga

Salah, 33, has been at the center of controversy after claiming he was “thrown under the bus” by Liverpool during a poor run of results. The Egyptian forward recently departed for AFCON 2025, but his Anfield future remains uncertain. The Saudi Pro League has expressed interest, and speculation over a potential January transfer continues.

Salah returned as a substitute in Liverpool’s last Premier League game, assisting Hugo Ekitike for a second goal in a 2-0 win over Brighton. Whether this will be his final appearance for the Reds remains unclear.

Tottenham’s Recent Form

Spurs have struggled in recent weeks, losing five of their last nine Premier League matches and recently suffering a 3-0 defeat at Nottingham Forest. Injuries and absences have compounded the team’s issues, with James Maddison, Destiny Udogie, Dominic Solanke, and Dejan Kulusevski sidelined. Yves Bissouma and Pape Matar Sarr are away at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Liverpool’s Recent Form

Liverpool started the season strongly but have faltered, winning only three of their last 11 Premier League games, losing six. Despite the challenges, they currently occupy seventh place, ten points behind leaders Arsenal. Injuries and suspensions also affect Slot’s squad, with Cody Gakpo, Giovanni Leoni, Wataru Endo, and Conor Bradley unavailable.

Head-to-Head Record

This will mark the 186th meeting between Tottenham and Liverpool. Liverpool have historically dominated with 90 wins, while Spurs have won 50 matches. Their last Premier League encounter ended in a 5-1 victory for Liverpool at Anfield in April 2025. Tottenham’s last league win against Liverpool was in September 2023, a 2-1 home victory.

Predicted Lineups

Tottenham Hotspur (predicted): Vicario; Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, Spence; Palhinha, Bergvall; Kudus, Simons, Kolo Muani; Richarlison

Liverpool (predicted): Alisson; Bradley, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Mac Allister, Gravenberch; Chiesa, Jones, Wirtz; Ekitike

Key Storylines

• Liverpool aims for back-to-back Premier League wins for the first time since September.
• Slot must navigate the team through the Salah saga and squad injuries.
• Tottenham faces pressure after poor form and speculation over manager Thomas Frank’s future.
• Both teams are under scrutiny from fans and media, with immediate performances potentially impacting managerial security.