Aksel Kryhlmand
The full Matchweek 1 schedule, released today, offers plenty of early drama
The 2025/26 Premier League season is set to kick off in style, with Manchester United hosting Arsenal at Old Trafford in a heavyweight clash on Sunday 17 August.
The full Matchweek 1 schedule, released today, offers plenty of early drama, from title-defending Liverpool’s curtain-raiser to a highly anticipated debut for Thomas Frank at Tottenham.
Liverpool Begin Title Defence
The campaign gets underway on Friday 15 August under the lights at Anfield as Liverpool welcome AFC Bournemouth. It marks the start of Arne Slot’s first full season in charge after guiding the Reds to the Premier League title last year. Liverpool have a dominant record against the Cherries at home, including that famous 9-0 victory in 2022.
But the champions face a tough early run with Newcastle (A), Arsenal (H), Everton (H) and Chelsea (A) all lined up before October.
Arsenal’s Tough Start at Old Trafford
Arsenal, runners-up for three seasons running, begin their hunt to end a 22-year title drought with a visit to Manchester United, a ground where they’ve only won twice in 18 years in the Premier League.
While Mikel Arteta’s side have yet to make their first summer signing, the pressure is on to get off to a fast start. United, now led by Rúben Amorim, have already bolstered their squad with Matheus Cunha and are statistically the most successful team in opening-weekend fixtures in Premier League history.
Thomas Frank’s Spurs Debut at Home
Tottenham Hotspur begin a new era under head coach Thomas Frank, who replaced Ange Postecoglou after the club’s Europa League triumph. Spurs host newly promoted Burnley, whose defence was the best in the country last season, conceding only 16 goals en route to the Championship title.
With lofty ambitions at the club and Frank already building his backroom staff, the opener will be seen as a crucial tone-setter for the Dane’s project in north London.
Promoted Sides Return in Style
- Sunderland return to the Premier League after a long absence and open their campaign at home to West Ham United.
- Leeds United, back after one year in the Championship, host Everton in a Monday night clash under the lights at Elland Road.
- Everton, meanwhile, must wait until Matchweek 2 to play their first top-flight match at the new Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Other Key Fixtures
- Wolves v Manchester City (Saturday 17:30)
City, aiming to reclaim their title, travel to a resurgent Wolves, who surged into top-seven form under Vítor Pereira last season. - Chelsea v Crystal Palace (Sunday 14:00)
The season’s first London derby pits Chelsea against FA Cup winners Crystal Palace in a clash at Stamford Bridge. - Aston Villa v Newcastle (Saturday 12:30)
A repeat of their Matchweek 1 meeting from two seasons ago, where Newcastle thumped Villa 5-1.
Matchweek 1 – Full Fixture List (BST)
Friday 15 August
- 20:00 – Liverpool v AFC Bournemouth
Saturday 16 August
- 12:30 – Aston Villa v Newcastle United
- 15:00 – Brighton v Fulham
- 15:00 – Nottingham Forest v Brentford
- 15:00 – Sunderland v West Ham United
- 15:00 – Tottenham Hotspur v Burnley
- 17:30 – Wolves v Manchester City
Sunday 17 August
- 14:00 – Chelsea v Crystal Palace
- 16:30 – Manchester United v Arsenal
Monday 18 August
- 20:00 – Leeds United v Everton
Note that all fixtures are subject to change based on broadcast selections and cup commitments. Fans are encouraged to download the Premier League digital calendar to stay updated on any scheduling changes.