The Premier League has already set out the entire calendar for the 2025/26 season and once again it is Europe's top league that has released the entire schedule of fixtures for the coming months until the final round of matches scheduled to be played in May. However, all indications are that the worrying times for Manchester United are far from over.
Considering that Rúben Amorim's side failed to qualify for European competitions and finished last season very close to the relegation zone, an opening with three matches against teams from the "Big Six" in the first five rounds is certainly something the Manchester United would like to avoid, but the reality is absolutely heartbreaking for these fans.
Manchester United's first game will be against Arsenal. After taking on Fulham and Burnely, they'll have to face Manchester City (away) and Chelsea (home) next. This means that Rúben Amorim will already be under more pressure if he doesn't get those wins and will have a much smaller margin for error in getting the signings to adapt to the club and the style of play.
Arsenal will also have problems at the start of the Premier League
It's also worth mentioning that Arsenal will have a similar situation with three teams from the "Big Six" as opponents in their first five games. After their opener against Manchester United, they'll have to contend with reigning champions Liverpool in Round 3 and reinforced Manchester City in Round 5, a situation that could be avoided after Mikel Arteta's main assistant is set to leave the Gunners.
Another highlight in the early part of the schedule is the fact that Manchester City will be starting the Premier League season away from home for the ninth time in a row. However, it's worth noting that Pep Guardiola has a positive record to build on, with eight wins and only one defeat in these circumstances.