The full schedule for Aston Villa's 2025/26 Premier League campaign has been officially released, mapping out Unai Emery's side's path as they aim to build on last season's historic top-four finish.
Key Opening and Closing Fixtures Revealed
The new season will kick off for Villa on the weekend of August 16-17, 2025, with a challenging opening day trip to the Emirates Stadium to face Arsenal. Their first home match at Villa Park the following weekend is against another formidable opponent, Chelsea.
The campaign will conclude on Sunday, May 25, 2026, with a final day clash against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium. This fixture could prove pivotal in the title race or the battle for European spots, echoing the drama of recent seasons.
High-Profile Clashes and Derby Dates
The fixture list has thrown up several standout dates for Villa fans to circle on their calendars. The first Birmingham City derby of the season is scheduled for the weekend of September 20-21, 2025, with the return leg at St Andrew's set for the weekend of February 7-8, 2026.
Other notable home fixtures include the visit of Liverpool in early November and a clash with Tottenham Hotspur in mid-December. The reverse fixture against Arsenal at Villa Park is slated for late January, offering a potential mid-season spectacle.
Analysis of the Crucial Run-In
The final stretch of the season looks particularly demanding for Unai Emery's squad. Following the match against Manchester City, Villa's last five games feature encounters with:
- Brighton & Hove Albion (A)
- Manchester United (H)
- Newcastle United (A)
- Southampton (H)
- Manchester City (A)
This sequence represents a significant test, with multiple matches against sides likely to be competing at the top end of the table. Securing European qualification or challenging for honours may well depend on navigating this period successfully.
The release of the fixtures allows fans and the club to plan for the long season ahead. With the added intensity of potential Champions League football, squad depth and management will be more critical than ever for Aston Villa as they embark on their 2025/26 journey.
