The premier league 2025/2026 season launched in the most emotional way at Anfield. The club honoured Diogo Jota and his late brother André Silva with a moving tribute — a tifo reading “DJ20”, a minute’s silence, black armbands, and fans singing “You’ll Never Walk Alone.”

Then the drama began. New signing Hugo Ekitiké opened the scoring, and Cody Gakpo added a second in the second half. Bournemouth refused to surrender: Antoine Semenyo struck twice amid controversy, reporting racist abuse mid-match that briefly halted play.

Little did we know the real fireworks were coming. Sub Federico Chiesa volleyed an 88th-minute winner, followed by Mohamed Salah sealing a 4–2 victory deep in stoppage time. Manager Arne Slot called the night “unbelievable,” both for the emotion and the late heroics.

Saturday Spread: City’s Command, Spurs & Sunderland Sparkle

At Wolves, Manchester City showed their mettle with a dominant 4–0 win. Debutant Tijjani Reijnders scored and assisted Haaland’s brace, while Rayan Cherki added a stunning finish. Guardiola’s side looked fit, fierce, and polished.

Elsewhere, Sunderland started strong with a 3–0 win over West Ham. Tottenham, under new management, dispatched Burnley 3–0 thanks to a Richarlison double and Johnson’s goal. It was a day that hinted at new contenders — and new stars — ready to rise.

At the Amex, Brighton and Fulham shared the points in a 1–1 draw. Matt O’Riley put Brighton ahead from the penalty spot early in the second half, but Rodrigo Muniz struck deep into stoppage time — around 90+6 — to rescue a point for Marco Silva’s side.

Sunday: Arsenal’s Grit, Chelsea’s Frustration and Brighton’s Surprise

Arsenal travelled to Old Trafford and relied on resilience more than style. A 13th-minute corner flicked in by Riccardo Calafiori decided the match. United created chances through new signings but couldn’t breach Arsenal’s defence. Another 1–0 win away to a big rival, quiet but powerful.

At Stamford Bridge, Chelsea dominated but couldn’t find a breakthrough. Crystal Palace countered well and even had a free-kick goal from Eberechi Eze ruled out on VAR due to wall interference, a seldom-seen enforcement under Law 13. The match ended goalless, underlining just how much Chelsea needs to convert control into chances.

Meanwhile, Nottingham Forest were ruthless. Chris Wood bagged a brace and debutant Dan Ndoye scored on his first game as Forest beat a depleted Brentford side 3–1. A thrilling start for Forest under Nuno Espirito Santo.

The opening matchday will conclude tonight as Leeds United hosts Everton at Elland Road.

The bottom line

City’s big win and Arsenal’s away statement are the weekend’s two title markers. Liverpool are dangerous, but defensive control remains the question. Spurs are lively. Chelsea are tidy but blunt. United must turn pressure into goals. It is only week one, yet the early rhythm looks familiar at the top.