The announcement of the Premier League fixtures for 2025-26 will whet the appetite of fans for the new season.
Arne Slot’s Liverpool will be defending their title while Leeds, Burnley and Sunderland are the promoted teams attempting to hold their own back in the top flight.
Here, the PA news agency picks out 10 eye-catching fixtures.
August 15, Liverpool v Bournemouth
Having won the title at a canter in April, Liverpool kick off the new campaign on Friday, August 15 with a home game against Bournemouth, where Slot’s men will hope to stamp some early authority.
August 17, Manchester United v Arsenal
It was a miserable season for Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United, while Arsenal failed to mount a meaningful challenge to Liverpool, so this opening-weekend match is a chance for both to establish some early positivity.
August 23, Everton v Brighton
Emotional scenes marked Everton’s final game at Goodison Park against Southampton last month, and excitement will greet the first match at their new home, the Hill Dickinson Stadium, on the second weekend.
September 13, Manchester City v Manchester United
The first big Derby of the new campaign comes in September, when Pep Guardiola’s City host United. The Red Devils’ incredible late turnaround in December at the Etihad was one of few highlights of a dismal campaign.
November 8, Manchester City v Liverpool
City’s title defence faded early last season as Guardiola’s men endured a miserable mid-season run. A home clash against Liverpool, who won 2-0 at the Etihad in February, will be a good test of their credentials this time.
November 22, Arsenal v Tottenham
New Spurs boss Thomas Frank will have to juggle trying to revitalise their league form with the demands of the Champions League, and the first north London derby will be a key test.
December 13, Sunderland v Newcastle
There will be a pre-Christmas return for the north-east derby following Sunderland’s promotion back to the top flight. Newcastle have flourished in their absence but will not take a trip to the Stadium of Light lightly.
January 7, Arsenal v Liverpool
The rhythm of the season will be well established by the new year, with the title contenders becoming apparent. This clash at the Emirates could be a key marker between two of the big guns.
February 7, Liverpool v Manchester City
Anfield hosts what will likely be an important match between champions Liverpool and Guardiola’s men. City have been busy in the transfer window and will hope their new signings can help them return to the top.
April 18, Everton v Liverpool
Everton fans will have to wait until the penultimate month of the season for the biggest date of their campaign when they welcome their neighbours to the Hill Dickinson Stadium for the first time.
