The Premier League fixture release for the 2025/26 season has sparked concern for both Arsenal and Manchester United, with a tough early schedule and grim predictions from pundits and bookmakers alike suggesting both clubs may struggle out of the gate.
Arsenal’s campaign begins with a heavyweight clash against Manchester United at Old Trafford on August 17, marking their first opening day trip to the Theatre of Dreams since 1989. Things hardly ease up for Mikel Arteta’s side, with Liverpool (A), Manchester City (H), and Newcastle (A) all on the calendar before the end of September.
Former Aston Villa striker Gabriel Agbonlahor has cast doubt on Arsenal’s ability to navigate the early storm. Speaking on talkSPORT, Agbonlahor predicted the Gunners would pick up just seven points from a possible 18 in their first six matches.
“You know what it’s like first game of the season, you’d expect United to be lively so I’ve gone with a draw,” Agbonlahor said. “Leeds at home, a win. Liverpool away, that’s a loss. Forest at home, a narrow win. Then you’ve got City and Newcastle — Arsenal don’t do very well there.”
Bookmakers are equally pessimistic. William Hill gave Arsenal odds of 66/1 to collect a perfect 18 points from their opening six fixtures — a probability of just 1.5%. “It’s a brutal start,” said spokesperson Lee Phelps. “This will be a true test of Arsenal’s title credentials right from the off.”
Manchester United, under new manager Ruben Amorim, haven’t fared any better in the predictions. With a similarly testing run to start their season — including matches against Arsenal, Fulham (A), Manchester City (A), and Chelsea (H) — Agbonlahor forecast just five points from their first five matches.
The early season hurdles could have lasting implications for both clubs’ ambitions. Arsenal, who have finished second for three consecutive seasons, are desperate to finally clinch the Premier League title. United, meanwhile, are looking to stabilise and rebuild after another turbulent campaign.
William Hill’s early odds favour Liverpool (12/1) and Manchester City (16/1) to start strong, with Chelsea (28/1) given an outside chance. United lag well behind at 125/1 to win their first six games — a stark indicator of expectations surrounding Amorim’s early tenure.
With the season set to begin in mid-August, both clubs face the pressure of hitting the ground running — or risk falling behind before autumn arrives.