The Premier League roared back to life on Friday night after an 82-day break, as Liverpool defeated Bournemouth 4-2 in an electrifying season opener at Anfield.
The match had everything fans had been waiting for: passionate Anfield chants, a standout debut from Hugo Ekitike, VAR drama, a reported racist incident, a stunning solo goal by Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo, and a thrilling finish.
And this was just the beginning—nine more matches remain in Game Week 1.
“It’s a great feeling having regular club football back,” said Clinton McDubus, football analyst and podcaster, in an interview with SPORTS MACRO. “There’s been football all summer, but nothing compares to the Premier League. This season promises to be another exciting one.”
For Liverpool, securing three points in their opening home match was crucial. In an emotionally charged night that included tributes to the late Diogo Jota, new manager Arne Slot’s team held off a spirited Bournemouth comeback to start the season strong.
Many fans and pundits have tipped the Reds to reclaim the title—and McDubus agrees.
“They’ve handled their title win well—upgrading their squad and offloading inconsistent players. If they manage to sign Isak, they’ll be even more dangerous,” he said. “That said, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester City will provide serious competition.”
Among Liverpool’s standout performers was Ekitike, who has now scored two goals in as many appearances. The 23-year-old is one of several high-profile attacking signings in the Premier League this summer. Arsenal brought in Viktor Gyökeres, Manchester United signed Benjamin Sesko, and Chelsea added Joao Pedro.
McDubus believes the league’s new strikers could play a pivotal role this season.
“They’re all talented, but I think Gyökeres and Ekitike have the potential to hit 20 league goals. I’m backing them to do just that,” he said.
At the opposite end of the table, newly promoted sides Leeds United, Sunderland, and Burnley face the usual relegation chatter. However, McDubus expects at least one to defy expectations.
“Sunderland could surprise people. They’ve spent over £130 million, but it’s not just reckless spending—they’re building a solid squad,” he noted. “It’s not just about buying experience; it’s about smart recruitment.”
Meanwhile, he predicts Newcastle United could be this season’s biggest underperformers.
“Unless they make some major moves before the transfer window closes, Newcastle could struggle. Their transfer window has been poor, and with the added pressure of Champions League football, it might hit them harder than before,” he warned. “Losing Isak would be a major blow.”
With the season underway, fans can look forward to more action, drama, and surprises—hallmarks of the world’s most-watched football league.
