The 2026-27 Premier League kicks off with a blockbuster matchup. Newcastle United host Liverpool this Sunday at St. James' Park, in a game that will immediately test the ambitions of two teams looking to play major roles this season.
For Newcastle United, starting the campaign at home represents a great opportunity to make a statement from Matchday 1. The Magpies will have one of the most passionate fan bases in England behind them and will look to use the atmosphere at St. James' Park to open the season with three points.
On the other side are Liverpool, who begin a new era under Andoni Iraola. After a preseason filled with changes, the time has come to see on the pitch just how far the Reds' new project can go.
Newcastle Look to Make Home Advantage Count
Newcastle United begin a new season determined to remain among the most competitive teams in English soccer.
The Magpies know that hosting Liverpool on Matchday 1 represents a difficult test, but it also provides the perfect opportunity to start the campaign with authority in front of their supporters.
Recent meetings between the two teams have produced matches of enormous intensity, and Newcastle already know what it means to defeat the Reds on a major stage.
Dan Burn was one of the key figures when the Magpies defeated Liverpool in the 2025 Carabao Cup final, scoring one of the goals that helped the club lift the trophy.
Now, a new story begins.
Newcastle want to turn St. James' Park into a fortress from the very first match of the season.
Newcastle Lineup
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Liverpool Begin a New Era Under Iraola
For Liverpool, all eyes will be on Andoni Iraola.
The Spaniard officially begins his Premier League tenure with the mission of building a team capable of competing for trophies, and his first test will come at one of the most difficult stadiums in the competition.
The squad has also undergone significant changes. Curtis Jones has just completed a permanent transfer to Inter Milan, while players such as Víctor Muñoz are preparing for their first campaign with the Reds.
Iraola used preseason to begin implementing his ideas, but now comes the real test.
Liverpool need to show from Matchday 1 that they have what it takes to compete near the top of the table.
Liverpool Lineup
A High-Level Opening Test
Newcastle will also have to keep a close eye on several Liverpool players capable of making the difference.
Alisson Becker, for example, could record his 138th clean sheet for the club and move into sole possession of fourth place on the Reds' all-time list in that category. Harvey Elliott is one appearance away from reaching 150, while Ryan Gravenberch could make his 100th Premier League appearance.
But Newcastle come first.
The Magpies want to open the season with a victory in front of their supporters and prove once again that they can compete against England's biggest clubs.
Then comes the challenge for Iraola and his Reds.
Newcastle want to defend their home.
Liverpool want to begin a new era with three points.
The wait is over.
The Premier League is back.
Match Information
Match: Newcastle United vs. Liverpool
Competition: 2026-27 Premier League
Matchday: 1
Date: Sunday, August 23, 2026
Time: 11:30 a.m. ET / 8:30 a.m. PT / 4:30 p.m. UK
Stadium: St. James' Park
City: Newcastle upon Tyne, England
Referee: Stuart Attwell