2025/26 EPL: Man United Vs Arsenal blockbuster tie headlines opening weekend fixture
The 2025/26 Premier League season kicks off on Friday, 15 August 2025, but the highlight of the opening weekend is undoubtedly the clash between Manchester United and Arsenal at Old Trafford on Sunday, 17 August.
Arsenal, having finished runners-up for three consecutive seasons, are determined to end their 22-year title drought. However, they face a United side boasting the best opening-weekend record in Premier League history. Despite a disappointing 15th-place finish last season, United have strengthened under new head coach Ruben Amorim, signing Matheus Cunha to bolster their attack.
This fixture is steeped in history, with Arsenal having won at Old Trafford only twice in the past 18 years. It promises to be a fiery showdown as Mikel Arteta’s Gunners look to prove their title credentials early while United aim to restore their status as a top contender.
Elsewhere, Liverpool begin their title defense at Anfield against AFC Bournemouth, while Manchester City travel to face a revitalized Wolverhampton Wanderers. London derbies kick off with Chelsea hosting FA Cup winners Crystal Palace.
The season will span 33 weekends and five midweek rounds, culminating in a simultaneous final matchday on Sunday, 24 May 2026.
2025/26 Matchweek 1 fixtures
Friday 15 August 2025
20:00 Liverpool v Bournemouth
Saturday 16 August
12:30 Aston Villa v Newcastle
15:00 Brighton v Fulham
15:00 N/Forest v Brentford
15:00 Sunderland v West Ham
15:00 Tottenham v Burnley
17:30 Wolves v Man City
Sunday 17 August
14:00 Chelsea v Crystal Palace
16:30 Man United v Arsenal
Monday 18 August
20:00 Leeds United v Everton
