The long wait is over. Football is returning, and with it, the relentless drama, passion, and excitement of the Premier League. As the new 2025/26 season approaches, fans around the world are buzzing about the opening weekend fixtures, which promise to set the stage for another unforgettable campaign. From marquee clashes between title contenders to the return of familiar faces from the Championship, the first week of action is packed with storylines.
We've got you covered with a detailed breakdown of the biggest talking points, matches to watch, and a full schedule of the season's grand return.
Matchweek 1 Full Schedule (All times BST)
Friday, August 15
20:00: Liverpool vs AFC Bournemouth
Saturday, August 16
12:30: Aston Villa vs Newcastle United
15:00: Brighton & Hove Albion vs Fulham
15:00: Sunderland vs West Ham United
15:00: Tottenham Hotspur vs Burnley
17:30: Wolverhampton Wanderers vs Manchester City
Sunday, August 17
14:00: Chelsea vs Crystal Palace
14:00: Nottingham Forest vs Brentford
16:30: Manchester United vs Arsenal
Monday, August 18
20:00: Leeds United vs Everton
Marquee Matchups: Battle of the Giants
The Premier League's fixtures has gifted us a truly massive clash right out of the gate. On Sunday, August 17th, all eyes will be on Old Trafford as Manchester United host Arsenal.
This fixture has a lot of extra weight behind it. For Manchester United, it's the first full season under manager Rúben Amorim. His short stint at the end of the last campaign saw mixed results, but this summer's transfer activity, which brought in new talent like Benjamin Šeško and Matheus Cunha, signals a new direction. The Red Devils will be eager to make a statement and prove they can compete for a European spot after finishing a disappointing 15th last season.
For Mikel Arteta's Arsenal, who finished a respectable second last season, this is a chance to lay down an early marker in their renewed pursuit of the title. Their own summer signings, including Martin Zubimendi and Viktor Gyokeres, have fans dreaming of a first Premier League title since 2004. This historic rivalry, combined with the pressure on both managers, makes it a must-watch encounter.
The Promoted Sides' Return to the Top Flight
The opening weekend also marks the highly anticipated return of three storied clubs from the Championship: Leeds United, Burnley, and Sunderland. Each club will be looking to prove they belong in the top flight, and their first opponents present a unique challenge.
Sunderland vs West Ham United: The Black Cats' return to the Premier League is a moment of immense pride for their passionate fanbase after an eight-year absence. They'll welcome a strong West Ham side to the Stadium of Light. The atmosphere will be electric, and West Ham manager Graham Potter will need his experienced squad to be prepared for a difficult test against a team riding a wave of emotion.
Tottenham Hotspur vs Burnley: Vincent Kompany's Burnley side may be gone, but the club returns to the Premier League under new manager Scott Parker after a single season away. They face a formidable challenge against a Tottenham team that will be led by new boss Thomas Frank. The Danish manager will be keen to get his Spurs tenure off to a winning start against a club known for its defensive resilience.
Leeds United vs Everton: On Monday night, Leeds United make their return to Elland Road for a clash with Everton. The Whites, back after a two-year absence, will be buoyed by a raucous home crowd. Manager Daniel Farke has a squad built for a high-intensity, attacking style of football, and they'll be ready to test an Everton side that will be looking to get their own season off to a strong start.
Other Notable Games
Liverpool vs AFC Bournemouth: The new season kicks off on Friday night with reigning champions Liverpool hosting Bournemouth at Anfield. Jürgen Klopp's replacement, Arne Slot, will lead his side in his first full season in charge. Liverpool have an excellent record against the Cherries, who will have to be at their absolute best to spoil the Anfield party.
Chelsea vs Crystal Palace: New Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca will face a tough London derby against Oliver Glasner's revitalised Crystal Palace. Palace finished last season in excellent form and will be a difficult opponent, even at Stamford Bridge.
Wolverhampton Wanderers vs Manchester City: The defending champions, Manchester City, travel to Molineux for a tricky Saturday evening fixture. Wolves have a history of causing problems for the top teams, and Pep Guardiola's side will need to be focused from the first whistle to avoid an early slip-up.