THE 2025/2026 English Premier League season with kick off on an explosive note, as Manchester United welcome Arsenal to Old Trafford on the opening weekend, while champions Liverpool host Bournemouth.
Liverpool, who won the league in Arne Slot’s first season in charge, will begin their title defence at Anfield in the opening fixture on Friday, August 15.
Newly promoted Sunderland, back in the top flight for the first time in eight years, start their campaign at home against West Ham the following day.
Championship winners Leeds welcome Everton to Elland Road for the Monday night game, while Burnley – promoted back to the top flight at the first time of asking – travel to UEFA Europa League holders Tottenham, who will be led by Thomas Frank in a league match for the first time.
Everton fans will have to wait until the second round of fixtures for their first league game at the brand-new Hill Dickinson Stadium, when they will face Brighton.
Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City will hope to bounce back from a dismal season with a strong start against Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux.
The season, which consists of 380 games over 33 weekends and five midweek rounds, will conclude on Sunday, May 24.
The Premier League has said the start date of August 15, 82 days on from the end of the 2024/2025 season, “allows for the maximum player rest time available”.
EPL opening weekend fixtures
Friday, August 15
Liverpool vs Bournemouth
Saturday, August 16
Aston Villa vs Newcastle
Brighton vs Fulham
Nottingham Forest vs Brentford
Sunderland vs West Ham
Tottenham vs Burnley
Wolves vs Manchester City
Sunday, August 17
Chelsea vs Crystal Palace
Manchester United vs Arsenal
Monday, August 18
Leeds vs Everton