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Florian Wirtz: The Most Expensive Signing of the Summer and Premier League Injury Updates

The excitement surrounding the 2025-26 Premier League season is palpable, especially with the recent signing of Florian Wirtz by Liverpool for an initial £100 million. As reigning champions, Liverpool aims to build on their success, and Wirtz is a significant addition to their squad. This weekend, the league kicks off with Liverpool facing Bournemouth, and fans are eager to learn about the latest injury news and Fantasy Premier League (FPL) statistics.

Key Injury Updates Ahead of the Weekend Matches

As the season opener approaches, managers are busy assessing their squads and evaluating player fitness. Liverpool's head coach, Arne Slot, has confirmed that Ryan Gravenberch will miss the match due to a suspension from the previous season, but Joe Gomez is back in training and could make the bench. Bournemouth's manager, Andoni Iraola, is also facing decisions as he evaluates the fitness of new signing Bafode Diakite.

Fixture List for the Opening Weekend

Here’s a look at the full fixture list for the opening weekend of the 2025-26 Premier League season:

• Friday: Liverpool v Bournemouth, 20:00 BST
• Saturday: Aston Villa v Newcastle, 12:30 BST
• Saturday: Brighton & Hove Albion v Fulham, 15:00 BST
• Saturday: Sunderland v West Ham, 15:00 BST
• Saturday: Tottenham v Burnley, 15:00 BST
• Saturday: Wolves v Manchester City, 15:00 BST
• Sunday: Chelsea v Crystal Palace, 14:00 BST
• Sunday: Nottingham Forest v Brentford, 14:00 BST
• Sunday: Manchester United v Arsenal, 16:30 BST
• Monday: Leeds United v Everton, 20:00 BST

Highlights from Key Matches

Liverpool vs. Bournemouth

Liverpool's match against Bournemouth not only marks the competitive debut of Florian Wirtz but also sees the return of several summer signings. Despite Gravenberch's absence, Liverpool remains a formidable side. The team boasts numerous attacking options, including Mohamed Salah, who had an outstanding season with 47 attacking returns last year.

Aston Villa vs. Newcastle

Aston Villa's Unai Emery is set to hold a press conference shortly, and both of Villa's senior signings may start. Newcastle, facing some uncertainty with Alexander Isak's situation, will be missing Joe Willock due to injury. The match promises to be a hard-fought encounter, with players like Ollie Watkins and Morgan Rogers expected to make significant impacts.

Brighton & Hove Albion vs. Fulham

Brighton is optimistic about their midfielder Carlos Baleba remaining with the club amidst interest from Manchester United. Fulham’s Marco Silva has confirmed that Rodrigo Muniz will play, despite transfer rumors. Brighton's Yasin Ayari and Fulham's Harry Wilson have been standout performers in pre-season, making them players to watch in this fixture.

Sunderland vs. West Ham

Newly-promoted Sunderland has made significant moves in the transfer market with 11 signings. West Ham could see several new players make their debuts, including El Hadji Malick Diouf and Callum Wilson. The match will serve as a litmus test for both clubs as they aim to establish their positions in the league early on.

Tottenham vs. Burnley

Tottenham's Thomas Frank faces a challenging start with seven injured players, but the return of Yves Bissouma could provide much-needed depth. Burnley, returning to the Premier League, will aim to make a statement with their new signings, including goalkeeper Martin Dubravka.

Wolves vs. Manchester City

As the match preview for Wolves vs. Manchester City unfolds, fans will be keen to see how new recruit Jorgen Strand Larsen performs after a promising debut season. With the likes of Tijjani Reijnders emerging as a key player, Wolves will look to capitalize on their home advantage.

Chelsea vs. Crystal Palace

Chelsea's Enzo Maresca will need to navigate the early part of the season without Levi Colwill, who is out long-term. The team will look to players like Cole Palmer, who has become a fan favorite and is currently the most-owned player in FPL.

Nottingham Forest vs. Brentford

Nottingham Forest’s team news will be available soon, but Brentford’s Keith Andrews has ruled out Yoane Wissa due to uncertainty over his future. The match could hinge on the contributions of players like Caoimhin Kelleher and Kevin Schade if they are deemed fit to play.

Manchester United vs. Arsenal

As the weekend rounds off, Manchester United’s match against Arsenal is expected to be one of the most exciting encounters. With Bruno Fernandes returning strong in pre-season and Matheus Cunha now a midfielder in FPL, both teams will aim to kick off their campaigns with a victory.

Leeds United vs. Everton

Leeds will look to make an impact against Everton, with standout performers expected to shine. Players like Joel Piroe and James Tarkowski will be pivotal as both teams seek to establish form in the early stages of the season.

Key Fantasy Premier League Insights

As FPL managers finalize their teams, several players emerge as essential picks for the upcoming gameweek:

• Mohamed Salah (£14.5m): With 47 attacking returns last season, he remains a must-have.
• Florian Wirtz (£8.5m): His performance in the Community Shield has generated buzz.
• Ollie Watkins (£9.0m): He has a strong record against Newcastle at Villa Park.
• Yasin Ayari (£5.0m): His pre-season form makes him an attractive budget option.
• Granit Xhaka (£5.0m): Now at Sunderland, he brings experience and leadership.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the top Fantasy Premier League players to consider this season?

Key FPL players to consider include Mohamed Salah, Florian Wirtz, and Ollie Watkins due to their impressive statistics from the previous season.

What are the latest injury updates for the opening weekend?

Injury updates include Ryan Gravenberch's suspension for Liverpool and Joe Willock's absence for Newcastle. Other teams are still assessing their players' fitness ahead of the matches.

How can I prepare my Fantasy Premier League team for the new season?

To prepare your FPL team, focus on players with strong pre-season performances, monitor injury news, and consider value picks to maximize your budget.

What fixtures should I watch closely this weekend?

Fixtures to watch include Liverpool vs. Bournemouth and Manchester United vs. Arsenal, as these matches feature top teams and star players.

Final Thoughts

The 2025-26 Premier League season promises to deliver excitement, drama, and fierce competition. With players like Florian Wirtz making headlines and various teams looking to establish form early, fans will be glued to their screens this weekend. As you set your Fantasy Premier League teams, consider the insights shared in this article and prepare for an unforgettable season ahead.

What are your predictions for the opening weekend? Will Liverpool's new signings make an immediate impact? #PremierLeague #FPL #Football