The 2025/26 Premier League season kicks off in electrifying fashion as Manchester United host Arsenal at Old Trafford, setting the tone for a campaign brimming with narratives, ambition, and redemption.
Arsenal’s quest to finally end their 22-year wait for a Premier League title begins with a daunting visit to Old Trafford on Sunday, August 17. Despite finishing second for three consecutive seasons, Mikel Arteta’s side face a ground where they’ve only won twice in the league since 2006.
Their opponents, Manchester United, are rebuilding under Ruben Amorim after a dismal 15th-place finish. The Portuguese coach has already begun reshaping his squad, with the addition of Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha from Wolves offering a glimpse of a more aggressive front line. United, historically strong on opening day, will aim to make a statement at home.
Champions Liverpool raise the curtain on Friday night at Anfield against AFC Bournemouth. Arne Slot’s debut in the Premier League comes with pressure, but history favours Liverpool, unbeaten at home against the Cherries and winners in seven of eight meetings. The 9-0 demolition from 2022 still lingers in the memory.
Liverpool’s early schedule is far from forgiving. A trip to Newcastle, a home clash with Arsenal, a Merseyside derby, and a visit to Chelsea all come before October. For a new manager, it’s a baptism of fire.
Thomas Frank’s first league game in charge of Tottenham is no less significant. Burnley, returning with the league’s stingiest defence from the Championship, visit Spurs looking to disrupt Frank’s debut and halt early momentum.
Elsewhere, Manchester City begin their campaign away at Wolves, now a rejuvenated force under Vitor Pereira. The reigning champions will be hungry to reclaim their crown after seeing Liverpool end their four-year dominance.
Leeds vs Everton on Monday night under the Elland Road lights promises an emotional return, while Sunderland welcome West Ham in their Premier League comeback. Chelsea hosting Crystal Palace adds the first of 42 London derbies into the opening weekend mix.
