There are two more Premier London Derbies (PLDs) matches this weekend with major significance at opposite ends of the Premier League (PL). At the bottom end, resurgent West Ham United are away v Brentford on Saturday 2 May 2026. Another win like the last gasp one at home v Everton last week, with a noisy crowd at last behind them, and safety could be in sight for The Hammers. Even a point like last season, The Bees having won the previous three encounters, would be most welcome.
At the other end of the PL table it’s Arsenal v Fulham also on Saturday 2 May. The Gunners are back on top with 73 points having lost top spot for a few hours to Manchester City who have closed the gap to 3 points, have a game in hand, and a goal-difference inferior by only one goal. There have been 3 home wins and 2 draws in the 5 times this fixture has been played since season 2016-17. A “tenth time lucky” away win for Fulham seems unlikely but would really pressurize life at The Emirates.
What is happening in the UEFA competition Semi-finals may have a big bearing on these matches. In the Champions League it was Atletico 1 v 1 Arsenal in Madrid on Wednesday 29 April, with both goals being penalties. The Spanish Club are masters of the away win and it will be a tough affair. Arsenal will have one eye on this v Fulham. On Thursday 30 April in the Europa League it was Nottingham Forest 1 v 0 Aston Villa. Forest are 16th in the PL just 3 points above West Ham United. Tottenham Hotspur are away at Aston Villa on Sunday 3 May hoping the home side have their thoughts on next week’s second leg Semi-final. Also on Thursday in the UEFA Conference League Crystal Palace will take a healthy lead into their second leg tie after Shakhtar Donetsk 1 v 3 Crystal Palace. It looks like PLDs will have at least one UEFA competition Finalist in May.
Until next time, enjoy your football, Andrew at premierlondonderbies.com .