Premier League game week 31: 6 key takeaways from the weekend

Game week 31 of the 2024–25 Premier League season brought major shifts across the table, at both ends. Southampton became the first team to be officially relegated, while Leicester City and Ipswich Town edged closer to the drop after more disappointing results. At the top, every team in the top four dropped points, allowing Newcastle United to climb into fifth place. The weekend ended with surprise defeats for Liverpool, Arsenal, and Nottingham Forest, shaking up the title and European qualification race.
Manchester United FC v Manchester City FC - Premier League
Manchester United FC v Manchester City FC - Premier League | Michael Steele/GettyImages
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2. Southampton's fate sealed in North London

Before their match against Tottenham Hotspur, Southampton needed a win to keep their hopes of Premier League survival alive. However, despite creating some big chances and keeping possession, their lack of conversion ultimately cost them. By the time they scored a goal through Mateus Fernandes in the 90th minute, the home side had already scored two via Brennan Johnson.

Even though they tried to get something in the final minutes, a late penalty conceded after a foul on Johnson by Wellington sealed their fate, as they lost 3–1 after Mathys Tel scored from the spot.

With just 10 points in hand, they still need one more point to at least equal the worst Premier League season record set by Derby County 17 years ago. The loss also saw Saints manager Ivan Jurić leave his job.

3. Ipswich Town's fight not enough in crucial relegation battle

In the battle between the 17th and 18th best teams in the league, Wolverhampton were at Portman Road to extend their lead over the home side to 12 points. However, Kieran McKenna’s side started strong and took the lead through Liam Delap early in the second half.

Despite the pressure from the away side, Ipswich Town did well to hold on to their lead until almost the final quarter of the match. However, two goals in 12 minutes from Pablo Sarabia and Jørgen Strand Larsen turned the tie for the Wolves. With seven matches remaining, relegation looks inevitable for the Tractor Boys.