The 2025-26 Premier League season kicks off Friday, with Liverpool starting their title defense by hosting Bournemouth at Anfield.
Despite winning the English top flight by 10 points last season, the Reds haven’t sat still. Liverpool spent over $300 million in transfer fees to bolster a formidable squad. That included pricey moves to add Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitiké to a powerful attack, and replacing right back Trent Alexander-Arnold (who joined Real Madrid) with Jeremie Frimpong.
Bournemouth will be very familiar with one of Liverpool’s big additions, with defender Milos Kerkez leaving the Cherries to join Arne Slot’s side in a $54 million transfer this summer. Still, manager Andoni Iraola — who is likely to include U.S. men’s national team midfielder Tyler Adams in his starting 11 Friday — has impressed since taking over in 2023, using a high-pressing approach that gives bigger-spending teams fits.
As such, it’s hardly the easiest assignment for a team like Liverpool, who are favored to repeat as Premier League champions. The Reds beat Bournemouth home and away last season without conceding a single goal, but the Cherries were able to record solid wins over Arsenal and Manchester City, and are more than comfortable trying to punch above their weight.
Here’s what to know for Friday’s Premier League season opener between Liverpool and Bournemouth:
Liverpool vs. Bournemouth: Time, TV channel and how to watch Premier League soccer
Time: 3 p.m. ET
Location: Anfield (Liverpool, England)
TV: USA Network (English), Universo (Spanish)
Stream: Fubo
Watch Liverpool vs. Bournemouth on Fubo (free trial)
USA TODAY Sports’ 48-page special edition commemorates 30 years of Major League Soccer, from its best players to key milestones and championship dynasties to what exciting steps are next with the World Cup ahead. Order your copy today!
