By Farru Tech Sports Desk
Published: June 18, 2025
The countdown to another thrilling Premier League season has officially begun. On Wednesday, June 18, the Premier League unveiled the full fixture list for the 2025/26 campaign, sparking anticipation among fans, pundits, and clubs around the globe.
Champions Liverpool are set to kick off the season with a Friday night opener against Bournemouth at Anfield on August 15, marking the beginning of their title defence under newly appointed manager Arne Slot.
But it’s the Sunday showdown between Manchester United and Arsenal at Old Trafford that headlines the opening weekend. The heavyweight clash between two title hopefuls is already being billed as a potential early decider in the top-four race.
Opening Weekend Highlights
- August 15: Liverpool vs Bournemouth
- August 16: Manchester City travel to Wolves
- August 16: Tottenham vs Burnley (Thomas Frank’s PL debut as Spurs boss)
- August 17: Manchester United vs Arsenal
- August 23: Everton vs Brighton (inaugural match at Bramley-Moore Dock Stadium)
- Sunderland vs West Ham: A return to Premier League football for Sunderland after an eight-year exile
- Leeds vs Everton: A Premier League comeback for Leeds United after two seasons away
A Gruelling Start for Contenders
Arsenal, who have finished second for three consecutive seasons, face a daunting start with matches against Manchester United, Liverpool, Manchester City, and Newcastle in their first six games. Manager Mikel Arteta will need his side firing from the start to avoid early pressure in a campaign where they will once again challenge for the title and juggle Champions League duties.
For Manchester City, a trip to Wolves will begin their pursuit of a seventh Premier League title under Pep Guardiola. After finishing third last season, City will be aiming for a strong opening stretch to regain supremacy.
Newly promoted Burnley, Sunderland, and Leeds United also re-enter the top flight spotlight, with Burnley drawing a tough start away at Tottenham, where Europa League-winning manager Thomas Frank takes charge of his first Premier League game.
Everton’s New Era at Bramley-Moore Dock
After bidding farewell to Goodison Park, Everton will usher in a new chapter when they play their first competitive match at the 53,000-seat Bramley-Moore Dock stadium against Brighton on August 23. The historic occasion marks a significant upgrade for the club, both commercially and culturally, as they embrace modernisation in a new venue with top-tier ambitions.
Live TV Fixture Announcement Dates
Given the influence of broadcast partnerships and European scheduling, fixture dates remain subject to change, especially for high-profile matches and those involving teams competing in continental tournaments.
Below is the Premier League’s estimated timeline for announcing live broadcast selections during the 2025/26 season:
| Match Period | Matchweeks | Announcement Date |
|---|---|---|
| August/September | MW 2–6 | 9 July 2025 |
| October | MW 7–9 | 20 August 2025 |
| November | MW 10–13 | 17 September 2025 |
| December/January | MW 14–24 | 15 October 2025 |
| February | MW 25–28 | 17 December 2025 |
| March | MW 29–31 | 21 January 2026 |
| April | MW 32–34 | 4 March 2026 |
| Matchweek 35 | MW 35 | 25 March 2026 |
| Matchweek 36 | MW 36 | 1 April 2026 |
| Matchweek 37 | MW 37 | 8 April 2026 |
| Matchweek 38 | MW 38 | Post-MW37 |
Fans are advised to keep a close watch on updates as fixture dates are frequently revised to accommodate live TV broadcasts, FA Cup ties, Carabao Cup rounds, and UEFA competitions.
Global Viewership & Growing Reach
The Premier League’s influence continues to rise worldwide. With improved broadcast deals across Asia, North America, and Africa, the league is expected to reach a viewership of over 4 billion across the 2025/26 season. Digital engagement is also on the rise, with interactive matchday features and second-screen experiences being launched by several clubs and networks.
Conclusion: A Season of Fresh Narratives
As the league readies for kick-off in August, storylines abound. Will Liverpool defend their crown under new leadership? Can Manchester City reclaim their dominance? Will Arsenal finally break through, or could Manchester United rediscover their past glory?
With a mix of old rivalries, fresh talent, and high-stakes drama, the 2025/26 Premier League season promises to be as exhilarating as ever.
Disclaimer:
Fixture dates and kickoff times are subject to change based on broadcast selections and domestic/European cup fixtures. All match dates and announcements are current as of June 18, 2025.
Sources:
– Premier League Official Website
– Club Press Releases (Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool FC)
– Sky Sports & BT Sport Fixture Announcements
– B/R Football & The Athletic
