The 2025/26 Premier League season is set to explode into life with a blockbuster opening weekend as champions Liverpool kick off the campaign under the Friday night lights against a fearless Bournemouth side at Anfield on 15 August.
But the drama doesn’t end there.
New boys Sunderland return to the big stage after an eight-year absence and brace themselves for a fiery North East clash against West Ham United.
Meanwhile, Leeds United and Burnley are handed baptism-of-fire fixtures away at Everton and Tottenham Hotspur, setting the tone for a fiercely competitive season.
Saturday’s action is laced with intensity: Aston Villa battle high-flying Newcastle in the early kickoff, while Wolves face a colossal test against defending champions Manchester City under the Molineux floodlights.
Sunday brings the weekend’s headline act, a seismic showdown at Old Trafford. Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, with eyes firmly on the title, march into enemy territory to face a resurgent Manchester United in a clash that could shape the tone of the title race from the outset.
Chelsea also begin their campaign with a London derby against Crystal Palace, as new signings prepare to dazzle at Stamford Bridge.
The curtain closes on Monday with Leeds United under the Elland Road floodlights, aiming to stun Everton in a pulsating finale to an electrifying opening round.
Opening Weekend Fixtures (All times BST):
Friday, 15 August
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Liverpool vs Bournemouth (20:00)
Saturday, 16 August
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Aston Villa vs Newcastle United (12:30)
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Brighton vs Fulham (15:00)
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Nottingham Forest vs Brentford (15:00)
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Sunderland vs West Ham United (15:00)
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Tottenham Hotspur vs Burnley (15:00)
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Wolves vs Manchester City (17:30)
Sunday, 17 August
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Chelsea vs Crystal Palace (14:00)
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Manchester United vs Arsenal (16:30)
Monday, 18 August
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Leeds United vs Everton (20:00)
