Everton vs Leeds United Prediction 26.01.2026 | Premier League

A renewed sense of optimism is sweeping through the blue half of Merseyside after Everton defied the odds to claim a stunning 1-0 victory at Villa Park against title-chasing Aston Villa last weekend.

The result, secured by a delightful second-half chip from Thierno Barry, marked the Toffees’ first win of the 2026 calendar year and lifted them back into the top half of the Premier League table, leaving them just three points adrift of the final European qualification spot currently occupied by Manchester United.

Even more encouraging has been Everton’s growing defensive resilience under David Moyes. His side have displayed impressive discipline and structure, recording three clean sheets in their last five league matches and an outstanding seven shutouts since the beginning of November.

However, Everton’s momentum has been dented by a significant injury blow, as loanee Jack Grealish has suffered a stress fracture to his foot and is set for an extended spell on the sidelines. He joins an already concerning injury list that includes Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Carlos Alcaraz, and Tim Iroegbunam, all currently confined to the treatment room.

Meanwhile, Leeds United travel to Merseyside in encouraging form, having ended up on the wrong side of the scoreline just once in their last ten matches across all competitions. That resurgence has allowed Daniel Farke’s side to open up a modest five-point buffer over the relegation zone, easing some of the pressure as the season progresses.

In their most recent league outing, Farke’s men delivered what the head coach described as their “best win of the season,” grinding out a narrow but valuable 1-0 victory over Fulham. The result brought an end to a four-match winless league run (D3 L1) and injected renewed belief into the squad.

Eager to further distance themselves from the drop zone, the Whites will aim to complete a first-ever Premier League double over Everton, having edged the reverse fixture 1-0 at Elland Road back in August. However, their confidence is tempered by a poor away record, as they have failed to win any of their last eight league trips (D3 L5).

Leeds will be without key defensive figures Jakub Bijol and Daniel James, both sidelined with hamstring injuries, while Swedish full-back Gabriel Gudmundsson remains a major doubt after picking up an adductor issue.