Liverpool V Bournemouth (Prediction 3-1): Liverpool begin their title defence in front of a packed Anfield, with the expectation that they will dictate play from the outset. Their pressing game and quick transitions are likely to pin Bournemouth deep for much of the match. Bournemouth may grow into the game and create a few moments of danger, especially if Liverpool push high, but the gulf in quality and familiarity with high-pressure opening fixtures should see the champions claim a convincing win, conceding only through a lapse or set-piece.

Aston Villa V Newcastle (Prediction 2-1): This has the feel of an early-season test for two clubs aiming to push for European qualification. Villa’s home form has been a cornerstone of their progress in recent seasons and they tend to start campaigns strongly. Newcastle’s defensive structure will be tough to break down but the energy of a home crowd and sharpness from pre-season preparations should allow Villa to edge the contest, even if it remains finely balanced until the closing stages.

Brighton V Fulham (Prediction 1-1): Brighton’s structured build-up play will meet a Fulham side that is difficult to break down and efficient on the counter. Brighton may enjoy more of the ball but Fulham’s compact shape could frustrate them, forcing them into wide deliveries and long-range efforts. Both sides appear evenly matched in their early-season rhythm and the balance between possession and counter-attacking opportunities should result in an evenly shared score line.

Sunderland V West Ham (Prediction 1-2): The return of Premier League football to the Stadium of Light brings excitement and raw energy that could make Sunderland dangerous early on. West Ham, however, bring years of experience at this level and a pragmatic style well-suited to away fixtures. Sunderland may catch them off guard with an early breakthrough but West Ham’s ability to manage the game and take chances in key moments should see them complete a comeback and take the points.

Tottenham V Burnley (Prediction 2-0): Tottenham open their campaign in front of their home supporters with an expectation to dominate possession and territory. Burnley’s high-energy pressing style may work in spells but over 90 minutes the step up in intensity and technical quality from the home side should wear them down. If Tottenham find an early goal, they could control the pace for the remainder of the match, limiting Burnley to speculative chances.

Wolves V Man City (Prediction 1-3): Wolves’ defensive discipline will be tested immediately against one of the most dominant attacking sides in recent history. Man City’s ability to move the ball quickly and stretch the pitch could create spaces for decisive moments, even against a deep-lying block. Wolves might threaten with direct play and counters, perhaps grabbing a goal but City’s superior cohesion and pressing game should keep them in control throughout.

Chelsea V Crystal Palace (Prediction 2-1): Chelsea open at home with a point to prove, aiming for a more consistent season after recent frustrations. They are likely to start aggressively, looking to unsettle Palace before they can settle into shape. Palace, known for their ability to spring forward from defensive positions, could find gaps if Chelsea overcommit. However, sustained pressure from the home side should ultimately tilt the game their way.

Nottingham Forest V Brentford (Prediction 0-2): Forest will seek to make a positive start in front of their home crowd but Brentford’s well-drilled pressing and direct attacking approach could prove decisive. If Brentford settle quickly, they may control territory and chances, forcing Forest to chase the game. We expect the visitors to remain composed, take their opportunities and close the match out with minimal fuss.

Man Utd V Arsenal (Prediction 1-1): An opening-day heavyweight clash that may be more cautious than the billing suggests. Both sides will be aware that an early defeat here could dent momentum. United’s solidity at home and Arsenal’s confidence in possession could cancel each other out. The match may have spells of intense pressure from both sides but ultimately we see them sharing the points, with the decisive moments coming from set-pieces or defensive lapses.

Leeds V Everton (Prediction 1-1): Leeds return to the Premier League with Elland Road in full voice, eager to test themselves against a seasoned Everton side. Leeds’ intensity and pressing may cause problems early on but Everton’s experience should allow them to weather the storm. As the game evens out, both teams could find openings, yet neither may have the edge to claim victory in what should be a fiercely contested draw.

The Weekend Narrative:
The curtain rises on the 2025/26 Premier League season with a blend of tradition, expectation and the raw unpredictability that only an opening weekend can bring. Champions Liverpool aim to lay down an early marker, while promoted Sunderland and Leeds hope to ride a wave of enthusiasm against battle-hardened opponents. Heavyweights clash at Old Trafford, where Man Utd and Arsenal could set the tone for their seasons in a high-stakes stalemate. Elsewhere, sides with European ambitions—Aston Villa, Newcastle, Chelsea and Tottenham—will be desperate to start fast, knowing the cost of dropping points early. With the summer’s talking points now behind us, this is where speculation ends and reality begins—ninety minutes at a time.