Arsenal Open Title Bid with Old Trafford Win
The 2025-26 Premier League season kicked off with a high-profile showdown between Manchester United and Arsenal at Old Trafford. Arsenal, considered early title contenders, faced a United side eager to bounce back from a disappointing 15th-place finish last season.
Arsenal won 1-0, with Riccardo Calafiori heading in the only goal in the 13th minute from a Declan Rice corner after goalkeeper Altay Bayindir failed to deal with the delivery, according to ESPN’s match report.
Viktor Gyökeres made his Premier League debut, starting up front for Arsenal. The Swedish striker, who previously worked under Ruben Amorim at Sporting CP, was trusted to lead the line from the opening whistle.
Benjamin Sesko, United’s marquee summer signing, began the match on the bench. Amorim opted for Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha in attack. Rasmus Højlund was left out of the squad. Bayindir started in goal in place of André Onana, who missed the game through injury.
Chelsea Held by Palace, Forest Impress Against Brentford
Earlier in the day, Chelsea were held to a goalless draw by Crystal Palace. The London derby featured controversy when Eberechi Eze’s stunning free kick was ruled out by VAR. The decision came after Marc Guéhi was deemed to have interfered with the wall.
Both Eze and Guéhi started the game despite ongoing transfer rumors. Their presence was crucial in a Palace side that showed defensive resolve. Chelsea, meanwhile, struggled to create clear chances.
Nottingham Forest made an early statement with a 3-1 victory over Brentford. Chris Wood scored twice in the first half, bringing his Premier League career total to 91 goals. Dan Ndoye, a summer arrival, added a third before halftime. Brentford’s Igor Thiago converted a late penalty to reduce the deficit.
Season Begins with Big Talking Points Across the League
From Gyökeres’ debut to Sesko’s surprise omission, the opening weekend was filled with drama. Liverpool faced Bournemouth next, while Newcastle hosted the Reds the following Monday.
For more on how United’s summer business played out, see our report on Manchester United’s €85M signing of Benjamin Sesko.
