Football fans are bracing for a seismic kickoff to the 2025/26 Premier League season, with Manchester United set to host title-chasing Arsenal on Sunday, August 17, in a fiery curtain-raiser at Old Trafford.
After a disastrous 15th-place finish last season, United are desperate to prove they are no longer a sleeping giant, while Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal return with a vengeance after three consecutive runner-up finishes. This clash isn’t just a match—it’s a statement, and it could define the trajectory of both teams from day one.
Liverpool, crowned champions last season under Arne Slot, will raise the curtain on Friday, August 15, at 8pm against Bournemouth at Anfield. With an eye on retaining the title, the Reds will be keen to kick off in dominant fashion in front of the Kop.
Saturday’s lineup is equally electric. Aston Villa face Champions League side Newcastle United at 12:30pm, while Sunderland make a stunning return to the top flight, hosting West Ham at the Stadium of Light. Brighton play Fulham, Nottingham Forest welcome Brentford, and Tottenham—under new manager Ruben Amorim—begin their campaign against Burnley, all at 3pm.
Later on Saturday evening, reigning champions Manchester City hit the road to face Wolves at the Molineux by 5:30pm. The Cityzens, who surrendered the title to Liverpool last term, will aim to reignite their dominance under Pep Guardiola, who’s entering what could be his final season in England.
Chelsea and Crystal Palace square off in a London derby at Stamford Bridge on Sunday, August 17, at 2pm, just before the weekend’s blockbuster fixture between United and Arsenal. The Blues, under Maresca, are keen to re-enter top-four conversation after back-to-back rebuild seasons.
The opening round wraps up on Monday night, August 18, as Leeds United—back in the top flight after a gritty promotion battle—host Everton at Elland Road by 8pm in a classic northern showdown that could set the tone for both teams’ survival ambitions.
