Reigning Premier League champions Liverpool will start their journey to defend their title by hosting Bournemouth at home. The Kop had an impressive summer 2025 transfer window with many quality additions, notably Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike.
The focus of the first round will be the exciting clash between Manchester United and Arsenal at Old Trafford. Both teams are actively recruiting quality new players for their own goals.
Arsenal are determined to end their streak of three consecutive second seasons and aim for the championship. Contracts such as Viktor Gyokeres and Martin Zubimendi show the Gunners' great determination to complete the squad.
Meanwhile, the "Red Devils" are no less outstanding with the recruitment of expensive striker Benjamin Sesko. They have previously brought in Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo - two players with experience playing in the Premier League.
After finishing only 15th last season, coach Ruben Amorim's team is aiming to return to the Champions League group with a position in the top 4.
Chelsea are also a "big guy" who has invested heavily to upgrade the squad. After a hard time winning a ticket to the Champions League, The Blues unexpectedly won the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 with a victory over PSG in the final.
This title is a springboard for coach Enzo Maresca and his students to aim for a successful new season. Chelsea's first opponent will be Crystal Palace - a team in the same city of London.
Another representative of London, Tottenham Hotspur, also experienced a turbulent summer. Coach Thomas Frank replaced Ange Postecoglou after Spurs were only 17th last season. The Europa League title is also not enough for the Australian strategist to keep his job.
The "Roosters" will officially start Frank's reign with a home match against Burnley.
For former champions Manchester City, they will have a challenging away trip to Wolves. Tijjani Reijnders, Rayan Ait-Nouri and Rayan Cherki are their notable signings in the summer transfer window.
The Citizens will be determined to regain their Premier League lead after Liverpool ended their four consecutive championship streak.
Premier League Round 1 Schedule for 2025-2026:
2:00 a.m. on August 16: Liverpool - Bournemouth
6:30 p.m. on August 16: Aston Villa - Newcastle
21:00 on 16.8: Brighton - Fulham
21:00 on 16.8: Nottingham Forest - Brentford
21:00 on 16.8: Sunderland - West Ham
21:00 on 16.8: Tottenham - Burnley
23:30 on 16.8: Wolves - Man City
20:00 on September 17: Chelsea - Crystal Palace
22:30 on September 17: Man United - Arsenal
2:00 a.m. on September 19: Leeds - Everton
