Who has the Toughest Start to the 2025/26 Premier League season?
by Kevin Rockwell-Ashton and Eugene Martell
Who has the toughest start to the season? With the world caught up in all the transfer chaos, let’s fast forward to August 17th. Manchester United host Arsenal at the Theatre of Dreams and, unfortunately for both clubs, the pressure will only continue in the following weeks.
After Arsenal, Manchester United travel to Craven Cottage to face Fulham before welcoming Burnley at Old Trafford. United then visit the Etihad to face Manchester City. After facing a rejuvenated Manchester City, United welcome Chelsea to Old Trafford. Fresh off a turbulent 2024/25, United would've hoped for a gentler start. With little margin for error, they'll have to weather the storm early.
By the end of September, we'll know exactly where Arsenal stand. A post-Old Trafford clash with newly-promoted Leeds will offer little respite before a brutal run—trips to Anfield and St. James’ Park, and home fixtures against Forest and Manchester City. Title contenders or top four hopefuls... we’ll know well before Halloween.













