Premier League Kickoff Sees Man City Cruise, Spurs Thrash Opponents

The 2025-26 Premier League season kicked off with a flurry of action, headlined by Manchester City’s emphatic 4-0 victory over Wolves at Molineux. Erling Haaland announced his return to form with a brace, while debutants Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki stole the spotlight, Reijnders contributing to two goals and scoring one himself, and Cherki netting a late stunner. Meanwhile, Tottenham Hotspur began the Thomas Frank era in style, thrashing newly promoted Burnley 3-0 at home. Richarlison’s scissor-kick volley and Brennan Johnson’s composed finish capped a dominant display, though Burnley’s wastefulness in front of goal drew criticism from manager Scott Parker.

Sunderland marked their Premier League comeback with a 3-0 rout of West Ham, showcasing their Championship-winning grit. Defender Dan Ballard was the hero, scoring a header and delivering a commanding performance, while new signings Granit Xhaka and Habib Diarra impressed in midfield. In a somber note, Brighton’s 1-1 draw with Fulham was overshadowed by the death of a 72-year-old Seagulls supporter during the match, prompting tributes from both clubs 13. Rodrigo Muniz’s late equalizer denied Brighton all three points, but the result paled in significance to the tragic incident.

Newcastle’s 0-0 stalemate at Aston Villa highlighted their reliance on Alexander Isak, who was omitted amid transfer speculation. Eddie Howe admitted the need to resolve the striker’s future “quickly” after a toothless display. Elsewhere, Liverpool’s 4-2 win over Bournemouth was marred by an alleged racist incident involving Antoine Semenyo, leading to a match pause and an arrest. With Manchester United vs. Arsenal still to come, the opening weekend has already delivered fireworks on and off the pitch.

Sources: BBC Sport, ESPN, Sky Sports, The Guardian.