The countdown to the 2024/25 Premier League season has begun, and football fans worldwide are eagerly awaiting the return of one of the most exciting and competitive football leagues in the world. The Premier League has a rich history of drama, surprises, and top-tier football, and this season promises to deliver more of the same.
Here’s everything you need to know about the start of the new Premier League season.
When Does the Premier League Start?
The 2024/25 Premier League season is set to kick off on Friday, August 16, 2024. This marks the beginning of another thrilling chapter in English football, with 20 teams battling it out over the course of 38 matchweeks to claim the coveted Premier League title.
The opening match of the season will see Manchester United face off against Fulham at Old Trafford. This fixture, set for Friday evening, will set the tone for what promises to be an exciting weekend of football. Fans are eager to see how the teams will perform after a summer of transfers, training, and tactical adjustments.
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What to Expect from the 2024/25 Season
The Premier League is renowned for its unpredictability, and the 2024/25 season is expected to be no different. Reigning champions Manchester City, under the guidance of Pep Guardiola, will be aiming for a fifth consecutive title, a feat that would further cement their dominance in the modern era of English football. However, their rivals are not going to make it easy.
Arsenal, who have been rebuilding under Mikel Arteta, will be looking to challenge for the title after falling short in previous seasons. With a squad full of young talent and new signings, the Gunners are poised to make a significant impact this season. Liverpool, now under the management of Arne Slot, will also be in the mix, aiming to return to the top after a period of inconsistency.
Chelsea, with their new manager Enzo Maresca, are another team to watch. After a summer of significant investment and squad overhaul, the Blues are expected to be serious contenders for the top four, if not the title itself. Maresca’s tactical approach, influenced by his time at Manchester City, will be crucial as he looks to implement a new playing style at Stamford Bridge.
Key Fixtures in the Opening Week
The opening weekend of the Premier League always brings a mix of excitement and nerves, as teams look to start their campaigns on a positive note. Here’s a look at some of the key fixtures to look forward to:
- Manchester United vs. Fulham (Friday, August 16): The season opener at Old Trafford will see Manchester United take on Fulham. United will be looking to start strong under Erik ten Hag, while Fulham will aim to make a statement against one of the league’s heavyweights.
- Ipswich Town vs. Liverpool (Saturday, August 17): Newly promoted Ipswich Town will host Liverpool in their return to the Premier League. Liverpool’s new manager, Arne Slot, will be eager to begin his tenure with a victory, but Ipswich will be determined to show they belong in the top flight.
- Chelsea vs. Manchester City (Sunday, August 18): One of the biggest fixtures of the opening weekend, Chelsea will welcome Manchester City to Stamford Bridge. This match could be an early indicator of the title race, as both teams are expected to be in contention for the Premier League crown.
- Leicester City vs. Tottenham Hotspur (Monday, August 19): The final fixture of the opening week will see Leicester City, back in the Premier League, take on Tottenham Hotspur. With both teams looking to secure a strong start, this match promises to be an entertaining affair.
Format and Schedule of the 2024/25 Season
The Premier League 2024/25 season will run over 33 weekends, with an additional four midweek rounds and one Bank Holiday matchweek. This ensures that fans have plenty of football to enjoy throughout the season, with matches spread across various time slots to accommodate different viewing preferences.
The season will conclude on Sunday, May 25, 2025, when all 20 teams will play their final matches simultaneously. This final day is always one of the most anticipated events in the football calendar, as it often decides the title, European qualification spots, and relegation battles.
International Breaks and Cup Competitions
The Premier League schedule is carefully crafted to accommodate international breaks and domestic cup competitions. These breaks allow players to represent their national teams in qualifying matches, friendlies, and tournaments, while also providing clubs with the opportunity to regroup and manage player fitness.
The FA Cup and EFL Cup will also take place during the season, with Premier League teams entering these competitions in the later rounds. These cup competitions add an extra layer of excitement to the football calendar, offering clubs additional opportunities to win silverware.
How to Watch the Premier League
For fans eager to follow every moment of the Premier League action, the matches will be broadcast live across various platforms. In the UK, Sky Sports, TNT Sports, and Amazon Prime will share the broadcasting rights, providing extensive coverage of the season. Sky Sports will air the majority of the matches, with TNT Sports and Amazon Prime covering selected fixtures.
For those who prefer streaming, matches will be available on Sky GO, Now TV, and Amazon Prime Video. This ensures that fans can watch their favorite teams in action from anywhere, whether at home or on the go.
