Premier League Gameweek 1: Team News & Predicted Lineups (2025/26)
Gameweek 1 of the 2025/26 Premier League season kicks off with a blockbuster clash between Manchester United and Arsenal at Old Trafford. Both sides come into the new campaign with revamped squads and lofty ambitions. United will be without Lisandro Martínez, while new signing Šeško is fit but may start on the bench. Arsenal are missing Gabriel Jesus and Leandro Trossard, with Viktor Gyökeres expected to lead the line.
Elsewhere, Liverpool host Bournemouth, but face a midfield dilemma. Ryan Gravenberch is suspended, and Alexis Mac Allister remains a fitness doubt. Bournemouth will be without Justin Kluivert and Ryan Christie. Manchester City, visiting Wolves, are without Joško Gvardiol and Savinho. Wolves, however, are largely at full strength and will rely on new forward Jørgen Strand Larsen.
Chelsea begin their campaign against Crystal Palace without Nicolas Jackson (suspended) and long-term absentee Levi Colwill. They’re expected to start João Pedro up front, with Cole Palmer and Jamie Bynoe-Gittens supporting. Palace are missing Daichi Kamada but will rely heavily on Eberechi Eze and Jean-Philippe Mateta.
Promoted side Sunderland return to the top flight with a home match against West Ham. Their predicted XI includes experienced additions like Granit Xhaka and Simon Adingra. West Ham, under a new manager, will line up with Fullkrug up front and new defensive duo Wan-Bissaka and Todibo at the back.
Tottenham host Burnley with most of their squad fit. Burnley, however, are missing striker Zeki Amdouni and will look to Lyle Foster for goals. At Everton, Jarrad Branthwaite is out, but summer signings Dewsbury-Hall and Iliman Ndiaye are set to debut.
Predicted Lineups (Selected Teams):
Man Utd: Onana; Dalot, Varane, Shaw; Casemiro, Mainoo; Antony, Fernandes, Rashford; Cunha.
Arsenal: Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Zinchenko; Rice, Ødegaard, Havertz; Saka, Martinelli; Gyökeres.
Liverpool: Alisson; Bradley, Konaté, van Dijk, Robertson; Endo, Szoboszlai; Salah, Gakpo, Díaz; Nunez.
Overall, Gameweek 1 promises high-stakes debuts, fresh tactical systems, and the chance for clubs to set the tone for the season. With several key absentees and new signings, fantasy managers and fans alike will be watching closely to see how teams line up and perform.
