Premier League Stalemate: Manchester City, Liverpool, and Tottenham Share Spoils on New Year's Day

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Manchester City's title hopes took a hit on New Year's Day as they were held to a goalless draw by Sunderland, despite dominating the match. The Citizens trail Arsenal by four points at the top of the Premier League table. In a disappointing start to 2026, three out of four New Year's Day fixtures ended without a goal. Tottenham also played out a 0-0 draw in their return to Brentford, where Thomas Frank made a triumphant return to the club he helped establish as a Premier League force. Manchester City had won eight consecutive games to end 2025, but they were unable to respond to Arsenal's impressive 4-1 demolition of third-place Aston Villa on Tuesday. Despite creating numerous chances, the Black Cats' goalkeeper Robin Roefs was in inspired form, denying Erling Haaland and Josko Gvardiol. Liverpool, too, struggled to break down a resilient Leeds side, drawing 0-0 at Anfield. The English champions were toothless in attack without Mohamed Salah and Alexander Isak, but a late offside call saved them from defeat. Dominic Calvert-Lewin thought he had extended his scoring streak, but his effort was ruled out for offside. The draws have left Liverpool three points clear of Chelsea and Manchester United in the battle for a place in next season's Champions League. Tottenham's lack of attacking inspiration was on display once again, with the visiting Spurs fans chanting 'boring, boring Tottenham' in the closing stages. Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner admitted his depleted side are in 'survival mode' after a 1-1 draw against Fulham extended their winless run to six games. Jean-Philippe Mateta's first goal in eight games opened the scoring for Palace, but Fulham captain Tom Cairney's fine strike rescued a point for the visitors.