Every Premier League Club’s 2026 Pre-Season Fixtures Ranked by Difficulty
With the 2026/27 Premier League season fast approaching, clubs are stepping up their preparations through a series of pre-season friendlies across the globe. These matches help managers improve fitness, test tactics, and give new signings valuable minutes before the campaign begins.
Defending champions Arsenal will kick off their title defence against Coventry City on August 21, but first Mikel Arteta’s side will face Girona, Real Betis, Borussia Dortmund, Como, and Manchester City in the Community Shield. The Gunners have also strengthened their squad with the arrivals of Illan Meslier and Christos Tzolis, while a move for Bruno Guimaraes continues to be linked.
Among all 20 Premier League clubs, Aston Villa have been handed the toughest pre-season schedule, receiving a difficulty rating of 9.5 thanks to clashes with Porto, Real Sociedad, Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Super Cup, and Borussia Monchengladbach.
Manchester United, Leeds United, and Nottingham Forest also face demanding preparations, with each taking on several top European opponents before the new season.
Liverpool’s schedule includes games against Sunderland, Wrexham, Leeds United, Monaco, and Como, earning Arne Iraola’s side a difficulty rating of 8.
Tottenham Hotspur also received an 8/10 rating. Roberto De Zerbi’s men will play Auckland FC, Sydney FC, Chelsea, Getafe, and Hoffenheim as they continue preparations for the new campaign.
Pre-season difficulty ratings
Aston Villa – 9.5/10
Leeds United – 8.5/10
Manchester United – 8.5/10
Nottingham Forest – 8.5/10
Chelsea – 8/10
Liverpool – 8/10
Newcastle United – 8/10
Sunderland – 8/10
Tottenham Hotspur – 8/10
Arsenal – 7.5/10
Everton – 7.5/10
Manchester City – 7.5/10
Bournemouth – 7/10
Brighton & Hove Albion – 7/10
Crystal Palace – 6.5/10
Hull City – 6.5/10
Ipswich Town – 6.5/10
Brentford – 6/10
Coventry City – 6/10
Fulham – 6/10
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