Premier League 2025/26: Key Fixtures, Storylines and What to Watch

James Smith

Editor

Last updated: 18 Jun 2025

James Smith 18 Jun 2025

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2025/26 Premier League starts with Liverpool vs Bournemouth.
Key early matchups: Arsenal faces tough opening fixtures.
Changes include Boxing Day scheduling to protect player welfare.

Arne Slot, manager of Liverpool (Getty Images)

Opening the Curtain: Liverpool Begin Title Defence

The 2025/26 Premier League season launches with a heavyweight billing as defending champions Liverpool host Bournemouth at Anfield on Friday, August 15, setting the stage for another campaign of drama and intrigue.

Arne Slot’s side, fresh from their 20th English title, will be eager to lay down an early marker in front of a raucous home crowd.

Manchester United, under Ruben Amorim, face a stern test as they welcome Arsenal to Old Trafford on the opening Super Sunday, while Chelsea take on FA Cup holders Crystal Palace in another live televised clash.

Manchester City, looking to bounce back after a rare trophyless season, travel to Wolves in Saturday’s evening kick-off.

Promoted Sides and Notable Returns

Sunderland return to the top flight for the first time since 2017, opening their campaign at home against West Ham.

Leeds United, back after a two-year absence, host Everton in a Monday night fixture that will see Elland Road buzzing with anticipation.

Burnley, promoted at the first attempt, face Europa League winners Tottenham, now managed by Thomas Frank, in north London.

Fixture Highlights: Early Clashes and Festive Scheduling

The opening month of the Premier League is packed with marquee matchups. Liverpool’s first three games see them face Bournemouth, Newcastle United, and Arsenal, a run that could set the tone for their title defence.

Arsenal, meanwhile, have a daunting start, with fixtures against Leeds, Liverpool, Nottingham Forest, Manchester City, and Newcastle in their first six outings.

The Premier League has confirmed there will be no Boxing Day fixtures this season, with matches instead scheduled for December 27 and a full round of games on December 30.

This adjustment ensures no club will be required to play twice in less than 48 hours during the festive period, a move designed to protect player welfare.

Liverpool’s Full Fixture List

Liverpool’s campaign is bookended by home fixtures, starting with Bournemouth and concluding against Brentford on May 24, 2026.

Key dates for the Reds include a home clash with Manchester United on October 18, a trip to Manchester City on November 8, and a Merseyside derby at Anfield against Everton on September 20.

Here’s a snapshot of Liverpool’s opening fixtures:

August 15: Bournemouth (H)
August 23: Newcastle United (A)
August 30: Arsenal (H)
September 13: Burnley (A)
September 20: Everton (H)
September 27: Crystal Palace (A)

Managerial Changes and New Faces

The new season brings fresh faces in the dugout. Thomas Frank takes charge of Tottenham after leaving Brentford, while Sunderland’s return is guided by Régis Le Bris.

Everton fans will experience their first full campaign at the new Everton Stadium, adding another layer of excitement to the Merseyside narrative.

Season Structure and Broadcast

The 2025/26 season features 33 weekend and five midweek rounds, culminating in a dramatic final day on Sunday, May 24, with all matches kicking off simultaneously at 4pm.

Sky Sports will broadcast a record 215 live games, ensuring fans won’t miss a moment of the action.

Looking Ahead

With Liverpool aiming to defend their crown, Manchester City and Arsenal plotting a response, and a host of clubs dreaming of European nights or top-flight survival, the stage is set for another unforgettable Premier League season.