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The match officials for matchweek 35 in the Premier League have now been confirmed, setting the stage for another decisive round of fixtures in the tail end of the 2025–26 season. With the campaign entering its final stretch, every decision could have major implications across the title race, European qualification battle, and relegation fight.

From high-stakes clashes to survival-defining encounters, the spotlight will not only be on players and managers but also on referees and VAR teams tasked with maintaining fairness and control.

Why Match Officials for Matchweek 35 Matter Now More Than Ever

At this point in the season, the appointment of match officials for matchweek 35 carries added significance. Margins are thin, tensions are high, and even a single decision can influence the trajectory of a club’s season.

Referees are expected to balance authority with consistency, especially as pressure from fans, players, and coaching staff intensifies. The integration of VAR has added another layer of scrutiny, making teamwork between on-field officials and video assistants critical.

This matchweek features several fixtures where officiating standards will be closely monitored, particularly games involving clubs battling for Champions League spots or fighting to avoid relegation.

Full List of Match Officials for Matchweek 35 Fixtures

The confirmed match officials for matchweek 35 cover ten fixtures scheduled between May 1 and May 4. Each appointment reflects the Premier League’s effort to assign experienced referees to high-pressure matches.

Leeds United vs Burnley (Friday, May 1)

Leeds United host Burnley in a crucial Friday night clash at the bottom of the table.

Match Officials for Matchweek 35

Referee: Tom Bramall
Assistants: Constantine Hatzidakis, Craig Taylor
Fourth Official: Adam Herczeg
VAR: Tim Wood
Assistant VAR: Jarred Gillett

This fixture could play a role in the relegation picture, making decision-making accuracy essential.

Brentford vs West Ham United (Saturday, May 2)

Brentford take on West Ham United in a mid-table encounter with European implications.

Match Officials for Matchweek 35

Referee: Craig Pawson
Assistants: Lee Betts, Mat Wilkes
Fourth Official: Andy Madley
VAR: Tony Harrington
Assistant VAR: Eddie Smart

Newcastle United vs Brighton (Saturday, May 2)

Newcastle United face Brighton & Hove Albion in a fixture that could impact European qualification.

Match Officials for Matchweek 35

Referee: Chris Kavanagh
Assistants: Dan Cook, Ian Hussin
Fourth Official: Bobby Madley
VAR: Neil Davies
Assistant VAR: Michael Salisbury

Wolverhampton Wanderers vs Sunderland (Saturday, May 2)

Wolverhampton Wanderers welcome Sunderland to the Molineux.

Referee: Paul Tierney
Assistants: Richard West, Scott Ledger
Fourth Official: Sam Allison
VAR: Matt Donohue
Assistant VAR: Wade Smith

Arsenal vs Fulham (Saturday, May 2)

League leaders Arsenal meet Fulham in a key London derby as Arsenal aim to go six points clear.

Match Officials for Matchweek 35

Referee: Jarred Gillett
Assistants: Simon Long, Steve Meredith
Fourth Official: Rob Jones
VAR: Peter Bankes
Assistant VAR: Adrian Holmes

With the title race still tight, officiating precision will be under intense scrutiny.

Bournemouth vs Crystal Palace (Sunday, May 3)

AFC Bournemouth host Crystal Palace in a game that could influence mid-table standings.

Match Officials for Matchweek 35

Referee: Rob Jones
Assistants: Neil Davies, Marc Perry
Fourth Official: John Busby
VAR: Peter Bankes
Assistant VAR: Tim Robinson

Manchester United vs Liverpool (Sunday, May 3)

One of the standout fixtures of the weekend sees Manchester United face Liverpool.

Referee: Darren England
Assistants: Tim Wood, Akil Howson
Fourth Official: Anthony Taylor
VAR: Stuart Attwell
Assistant VAR: Constantine Hatzidakis

This high-profile clash will demand top-level officiating given the intensity and history of the rivalry.

Aston Villa vs Tottenham Hotspur (Sunday, May 3)

Aston Villa take on Tottenham Hotspur in a game that could shape both European hopes and relegation fears.

Referee: Sam Barrott
Assistants: James Mainwaring, Wade Smith
Fourth Official: Paul Tierney
VAR: Tony Harrington
Assistant VAR: Nick Hopton

Chelsea vs Nottingham Forest (Monday, May 4)

Chelsea face Nottingham Forest as both sides look to finish the season strongly.

Referee: Anthony Taylor
Assistants: Gary Beswick, Adam Nunn
Fourth Official: Michael Salisbury
VAR: James Bell
Assistant VAR: Dan Robathan

Everton vs Manchester City (Monday, May 4)

Everton host Manchester City in a fixture that could impact both ends of the table.

Referee: Michael Oliver
Assistants: Stuart Burt, Nick Greenhalgh
Fourth Official: Andy Madley
VAR: Paul Howard
Assistant VAR: Blake Antrobus

Key Matches Where Officiating Will Be Crucial

Among all the match officials for matchweek 35, certain fixtures stand out due to their potential impact.

The clash between Manchester United and Liverpool is arguably the headline game. Given the history, intensity, and stakes involved, referee Darren England will be under immense pressure to maintain control and ensure consistency.

Similarly, Arsenal’s match against Fulham carries title implications. Any controversial decision in this fixture could influence the outcome of the championship race.

At the other end of the table, games involving Leeds United, Wolverhampton Wanderers, and Tottenham Hotspur could shape the relegation battle. These matches often feature physical play and high emotions, increasing the likelihood of contentious calls.

The Role of VAR in Matchweek 35

VAR continues to play a defining role in modern football, and the match officials for matchweek 35 will rely heavily on video assistance for critical decisions.

From offside calls to penalty reviews, VAR officials must work seamlessly with on-field referees. Communication and clarity are essential, especially in high-pressure moments where delays or inconsistencies can frustrate players and fans alike.

The presence of experienced VAR officials such as Stuart Attwell and Tony Harrington highlights the league’s focus on maintaining high officiating standards.

Refereeing Trends to Watch

As the season nears its conclusion, certain refereeing trends are worth noting. Officials tend to adopt a stricter approach to time-wasting and dissent, particularly in matches with significant stakes.

There is also increased emphasis on consistency in handball decisions and VAR interventions. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how these standards are applied across different fixtures.

The performance of referees during this matchweek could influence future appointments, especially for major games in the closing rounds.

A Defining Weekend for Match Officials

The match officials for matchweek 35 will play a central role in shaping the outcomes of one of the most important rounds of the Premier League season.

With so much at stake across the table, the pressure on referees and VAR teams will be immense. Their ability to make accurate, consistent, and timely decisions will be crucial in ensuring fair competition.

As fans focus on goals, tactics, and results, the unseen influence of officiating will quietly determine how the drama unfolds.