Bournemouth vs Arsenal Prediction & Betting Tips (3 January)

Once close to the European folding seats, Bournemouth has seriously fallen into line in recent weeks. Andoni Iraola's team now occupies 15th place in the Premier League, 7 points behind 5th and 9 ahead of the first relegated team. The Cherries have not won any of their last 9 league matches. After holding off Chelsea 0-0, Manchester United 4-4 and Burnley 1-1, they fell to Brentford last weekend 4-1. This week, Bournemouth traveled to the den of Chelsea to come. As in previous years, Arsenal is in the fight for the title this season.

The London team has long dominated the debates but has seen its competitors come dangerously close recently. Still at the top of the Premier League, the Gunners are only 2 points ahead of their runner-up. Beaten on the lawn of Aston Villa 2-1, they then had three victories against Wolverhampton 2-1, Everton 0-1 and Brighton last weekend 2-1. This week, Arsenal hosted Aston Villa. 

Both teams have been navigating a congested schedule, and their recent performances highlight contrasting trajectories. Bournemouth’s ability to score against top-tier opposition has been encouraging, but defensive lapses remain a recurring issue, as seen in their defeat to BrentfordPremier League. Arsenal, on the other hand, have been grinding out results even when not at their fluent best, relying heavily on midfield control and set‑piece efficiency. Their upcoming FA Cup and Carabao Cup commitmentsArsenal FC also add pressure, but they have shown they can rotate effectively without losing structure. The tactical battle here is likely to hinge on whether Bournemouth can disrupt Arsenal’s rhythm early or whether the visitors impose their usual territorial dominance.

Looking ahead to this clash, the narrative is shaped by recent history, squad form, and the psychological weight of Bournemouth’s shock win at the Emirates earlier this year. Arsenal will be eager to correct that anomaly, and their improved defensive organization since then suggests they are better equipped to manage Bournemouth’s transitions. Bournemouth, though dangerous, have struggled for consistency in December, while Arsenal have shown a stronger competitive edge. With all factors considered, the prediction leans firmly toward an Arsenal victory, and the expected correct score for this matchup is 0 : 3.

• Summary: Bournemouth is going head to head with Arsenal starting on 3 Jan 2026 at 17:30 UTC at Vitality Stadium stadium, Bournemouth city, England. The match is a part of the Premier League .
• Referee: Chris Kavanagh
• Bournemouth Feedinco Rating: 6.75
• Arsenal Feedinco Rating: 6.97