Premier League Matchweek 1: Drama, Debuts and Leeds’ Fairytale Return

The Premier League is back, and if Matchweek 1 is anything to go by, the 2025/26 season is set to be one of the most unpredictable campaigns in years. From dominant champions flexing their muscles to newly promoted sides stealing the headlines, the opening weekend had it all.

Champions Get to Work

Liverpool began their title defense with a 4-2 victory over Bournemouth, and Anfield wasted no time reminding the league what they’re capable of. Goals from new signing Hugo Ekitike, Cody Gakpo, Federico Chiesa and Mohamed Salah settled the tie, but the game also carried heavy emotion after incidents of racial abuse in the stands overshadowed the football.

Fans praised Liverpool’s resolve on social media, with one user writing: “Only Liverpool could mix drama, brilliance and chaos into 90 minutes. Champions’ mentality.”

City Send a Message

If Liverpool’s win was gritty, Manchester City’s was ruthless. Pep Guardiola’s side brushed Wolves aside 4-0, showing once again that their squad depth may carry them not only in the league but across every competition this season. Wolves, meanwhile, already look short of pace and ideas after losing key players over the summer.

North London Contrast

Arsenal edged Manchester United 1-0 at Old Trafford, a result that feels bigger than the scoreline suggests. With Mikel Arteta’s side looking sharp and United once again struggling for fluidity, the pressure on new manager Rúben Amorim is already starting to simmer. United were the better side for most of the match, and showed vast improvement, but just couldn’t find an equalizer.

In contrast, Tottenham flew out of the blocks. Thomas Frank’s debut as Spurs boss saw Richarlison bag a brace and Mohammed Kudus shine with two assists in a 3-0 demolition of Burnley.

Sunderland Announce Their Return

One of the weekend’s most heartwarming stories came from Sunderland. Back in the Premier League after years in the wilderness, the Black Cats marked their return with a thumping 3-0 win over West Ham. The Stadium of Light was bouncing, and fans online hailed it as “the start of something special.”

Tight Calls and Stalemates

Not every game delivered fireworks. Newcastle dominated Aston Villa but couldn’t find a breakthrough in a 0-0 draw, while Chelsea’s clash with Crystal Palace was a similar cagey affair.

Palace initially took the lead, but saw Eberechi Eze’s goal ruled out, as Palace defender Marc Guehi and Chelsea midfielder, Moises Caicedo got into a tussle, and obstructed Chelsea’s keeper Robert Sanchez’ view.  Both results showed how early-season rust can weigh on even the league’s most ambitious sides.

Leeds’ Fairytale Return

The final act of Matchweek 1 belonged to Leeds United. Back in the Premier League after a two-year absence, Elland Road was rocking as they hosted Everton. Despite dominating the first half, Leeds looked destined for frustration until debutant Lukas Nmecha stepped up late.

The German striker, signed from Wolfsburg, buried an 84th-minute penalty after VAR upheld a handball against James Tarkowski. It was a controversial decision, but one that capped off a spirited performance.

Leeds fans erupted both in the stands and online. One supporter posted: “We’re back where we belong. Nmecha’s name already etched in Elland Road folklore.”

What We Learned

Opening weekends don’t decide titles, but they do set the tone. Liverpool and City have made it clear they won’t slow down, Arsenal have laid down a marker, and Sunderland and Leeds brought back the romance of promotion stories. For United, Wolves, Burnley and West Ham, however, the early signs are worrying.

The Premier League has only just started, but already it feels like we’re in for a season of chaos, shocks and storylines that will keep fans talking from Joburg to Jakarta.

Source:Business Standard

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