The 2025/26 Premier League season burst into life this weekend with a captivating series of matches that set the tone for what promises to be another thrilling campaign. From commanding victories by the title contenders to stunning upsets, the opening weekend had it all. Let’s dive into the action, crown our top performers, and dissect the key talking points.
Match Summaries: The Stories from the Pitch
Manchester City’s Dominance at Molineux:
The champions, Manchester City, wasted no time in laying down a marker. They travelled to Wolverhampton Wanderers and left with a resounding 4-0 victory. This was a classic City performance, characterized by clinical finishing and relentless pressure. Erling Haaland continued his goal-scoring prowess, netting a brace, while debutants Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki also got in on the act, showcasing the depth of Pep Guardiola’s squad. The result was a stark reminder of why they are the team to beat.
Liverpool’s Six-Goal Thriller:
Liverpool and Bournemouth provided the highest-scoring spectacle of the weekend in a rollercoaster of a match. Liverpool emerged 4-2 winners, but not without a scare. The Reds’ attack, led by the prolific forward line, was in full flow, but their new-look defence under Arne Slot showed some early vulnerabilities. The performance, while not flawless, demonstrated their attacking firepower and ability to grind out a result.
Sunderland’s Statement Victory:
In one of the biggest shocks of the weekend, newly promoted Sunderland made a dream return to the top flight with a dominant 3-0 victory over West Ham. The Black Cats were sensational, with goals from Eliezer Mayenda, Dan Ballard, and Wilson Isidor. They played with a hunger and cohesion that completely overwhelmed a bewildered West Ham side. This result serves as a massive confidence boost for Sunderland and a wake-up call for the Hammers.
Arsenal Edges Out Manchester United:
In the weekend’s marquee clash, Arsenal secured a crucial 1-0 win against Manchester United at Old Trafford. The Gunners’ victory was a testament to their defensive solidity and tactical discipline. A set-piece goal from Riccardo Calafiori was all it took. While Manchester United, with their new-look attack, showed flashes of promise, they were ultimately frustrated by a resolute Arsenal backline. This victory will be a huge psychological boost for Mikel Arteta’s side, especially given the historical rivalry and the importance of an away win against a top-six rival.
Tottenham and Nottingham Forest Secure Wins:
Tottenham Hotspur also started their season with a bang, defeating Burnley 3-0. Richarlison was in fine form, scoring two goals and showcasing his clinical edge. Nottingham Forest, meanwhile, earned a hard-fought 3-1 victory over Brentford, with new signing Dan Ndoye and striker Chris Wood both getting on the scoresheet.
Stalemate at Stamford Bridge:
Chelsea and Crystal Palace played out a goalless draw in a match that lacked a cutting edge. Both teams had their moments, but neither could find a way to break the deadlock. For Chelsea, it was a frustrating start to the new season, while Palace will be pleased to have secured a point away from home.
Player of the Week: Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
It’s hard to look past the Norwegian goal machine. With a brace against Wolves, Erling Haaland demonstrated exactly why he is considered one of the most lethal strikers in the world. He was a constant threat, his movement was sharp, and his finishing was as clinical as ever. He is the standard-setter, and his performance this weekend has already put the rest of the league on notice.
Coach of the Week: Régis Le Bris (Sunderland)
The award goes to Régis Le Bris, the manager who masterminded Sunderland’s stunning 3-0 victory over West Ham. In their first game back in the Premier League, his team showed incredible tactical awareness, discipline, and a clear game plan. They were not only defensively sound but also created and converted chances with a ruthless efficiency that belied their underdog status. Le Bris has instantly won the hearts of the Sunderland faithful and has given them a reason to believe this season will be a success.
Team of the Week (4-3-3 Formation)
- Goalkeeper: James Trafford (Manchester City) – A strong debut performance, making crucial saves to preserve City’s clean sheet against a dangerous Wolves attack.
- Right-Back: Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool) – A typically brilliant performance, with his attacking prowess on full display as he contributed to Liverpool’s goal-fest.
- Centre-Back: Riccardo Calafiori (Arsenal) – Scored the winning goal against Manchester United and was a rock at the back, neutralizing the threat of United’s new signings.
- Centre-Back: Dan Ballard (Sunderland) – Scored a goal and was a defensive colossus for Sunderland, leading the backline to an impressive clean sheet.
- Left-Back: Pervis Estupiñán (Brighton) – Active on the left flank, he was a key player in Brighton’s attacking and defensive efforts in their draw with Fulham.
- Central Midfielder: Granit Xhaka (Sunderland) – Making a triumphant return to the Premier League, Xhaka dictated the tempo from midfield and was a calming presence in Sunderland’s upset victory.
- Central Midfielder: Tijjani Reijnders (Manchester City) – A dream debut, scoring a goal and providing a dynamic presence in the heart of City’s midfield.
- Attacking Midfielder: Rayan Cherki (Manchester City) – Another debutant who shone brightly, Cherki’s creativity and skill were on full display, and he capped it off with a goal.
- Right-Winger: Bukayo Saka (Arsenal) – A constant threat on the right wing for Arsenal, his pace and directness caused United problems all afternoon.
- Left-Winger: Dan Ndoye (Nottingham Forest) – The new signing for Forest was a thorn in the side of the Brentford defense, using his pace and trickery to great effect and getting on the scoresheet.
- Striker: Erling Haaland (Manchester City) – Unquestionably the best performer of the weekend, his two goals secured a dominant win for City and reminded everyone of his immense talent.
