Premier League: Opening Week Drama as Giants Launch Title Campaigns

The Premier League’s return brought immediate drama, surprise upsets, and the first glimpses of emerging stars as the 2025/26 season kicked off in style.

Arsenal launched their campaign with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford. Calafiori was the Gunners’ hero, powerfully striking home after a defensive mix-up. United’s new goalkeeper Altay Bayindir made a costly error, and questions swirled around manager Ruben Amorim’s decision to bench striker Rasmus Højlund for the season opener.

At Stamford Bridge, Chelsea and Crystal Palace played out a goalless draw marked by frustration. Eberechi Eze had a goal chalked off after a controversial VAR decision, while Chelsea’s pricey new arrivals – including Palmer, Gittens, and Pedro – failed to ignite the Blues’ attack.

Nottingham Forest celebrated a commanding 3–1 win over Brentford, thanks to a Chris Wood double and the creative midfield play of Morgan Gibbs-White. Brentford found a late consolation, but Forest’s bright start raises hopes for an exciting campaign.

Champions Manchester City wasted no time showcasing their title credentials, routing Wolverhampton Wanderers 4–0. Star striker Erling Haaland picked up where he left off last season, bagging two goals in a dominant display.

Promoted Sunderland made a dream Premier League return, dispatching West Ham United 3–0 with flair and composure. Tottenham Hotspur also impressed, enjoying a comfortable 3–0 win against newly-promoted Burnley under manager Ange Postecoglou.

Newcastle United and Aston Villa shared the spoils in a tense 1–1 draw, with Villa holding on after a red card to Ezri Konsa. Elsewhere, Liverpool needed late heroics to edge Bournemouth 2–1 at Anfield, debutant Hugo Ekitike grabbing the clincher. Brighton and Fulham produced a thrilling 2–2 draw, Rodrigo Muniz salvaging a point for Fulham deep into stoppage time.

With Manchester City, Sunderland, Tottenham, Liverpool, Nottingham Forest, and Arsenal all earning opening victories, the race to the summit is already fierce. Standout performers included Forest’s Chris Wood and City’s relentless Erling Haaland, while VAR proved controversial yet again.

The Premier League’s opening week delivered high stakes and high drama. Across stadiums, new signings faced instant scrutiny, while established stars reaffirmed their places on football’s biggest stage, setting up another season of exhilarating competition.

Follow us on Tiktok for more football content