Premier League Fixtures 2025-26: Who Has the Toughest Start?

The Premier League 2025-26 season is just around the corner, and fixture release day has once again delivered excitement and speculation for fans and punters alike. From derby dates to title-deciding showdowns, every supporter is eager to dissect what the new season has in store.

At PlayZada Sports, we’ve crunched the data and paired it with expert odds to help you make informed bets on the most important early-season fixtures.

Opening Day Highlights

The action kicks off on Friday, 15 August with reigning champions Liverpool hosting Bournemouth. Mo Salah, known for his explosive starts, could be key to early betting markets. Liverpool’s odds to win their opener are already trending strongly at PlayZada.

One of the standout clashes of Matchday 1 is Manchester United vs Arsenal on Sunday 17 August—a fixture rich in rivalry and implications. According to Opta Sports, United face the toughest start, with an average opponent rating of 94.6 in their opening five games. This includes games against Fulham, Burnley, Man City, and Chelsea.

Fixture Difficulty: First 5 Games

Our data partners at The Analyst provide Power Ratings that measure each opponent’s strength. Based on this, clubs like Man Utd, Arsenal, Bournemouth, and Everton have the roughest starts, while Aston Villa enjoys a relatively easier run with an average opponent rating of 90.9.

Opening 10 Matches: What to Expect

Looking at the first 10 rounds, Liverpool again tops the charts for fixture difficulty, facing Arsenal, Everton, Chelsea, and Man Utd—all within two months. Betting on match outcomes, goal scorers, and combos can be done securely on PlayZada, where you’ll find the best odds and fast payouts.

Bet Smart This Season

Whether you’re backing title contenders or betting on underdog surprises, stay sharp with the latest insights and real-time odds at PlayZada Sportsbook. Don’t miss your chance to get ahead of the curve and profit early in the season.