Manchester City kicks off their Premier League title defense facing a stern challenge against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge during the opener.
Aiming for a fifth straight championship, Pep Guardiola’s squad confronts Chelsea, now helmed by Enzo Maresca, on August 18. Despite City’s strong track record of triumphs in opener matches, their sole recent stumbling occurred in London—a defeat to Tottenham.
For the first time since 1971, Chelsea opens their season against the defending champions. Their previous encounter under similar circumstances ended in a loss to Arsenal at Highbury.
The fixture list for the 2024-25 Premier League was released on Tuesday.
Arsenal, having been runners-up to City for two seasons, will battle Wolves at their home ground on August 17.
The season’s kick-off features Manchester United playing against Fulma at their stadium in a night match on August 16.
Liverpool, under new manager Arne Slot, travels to newly promoted Ipswich Town, while play-off victors Southampton visit Newcastle United at St James’ Park.
Leicester City and Tottenham round out the opening weekend with a Monday night clash at Leicester’s ground.
The calendar also features several high-stakes early matches. Arsenal has consecutive clashes on enemy turf against Aston Villa, Tottenham, and Manchester City by September.
Manchester United is set to play a pivotal game against Liverpool at Old Trafford on August 31 during Matchday 3.
