Premier League Accused of Fixture Fixing After Big Six Nightmare Start >> Fans Cry ‘RIGGED!’

Supporters of the North London giants have erupted online, accusing the Premier League of “rigging” the new season after Mikel Arteta’s men were handed a brutal opening schedule for the 2025/26 campaign. 

Arsenal, who have finished as runners-up for three consecutive seasons, will begin their latest title pursuit on August 17 with a trip to Old Trafford, never an easy place to start, especially with Manchester United expected to unveil a raft of new signings. 

Things don’t get any easier from there. A home clash with newly-promoted Leeds United is followed by a daunting visit to Anfield on August 30 to face reigning champions Liverpool. 

After the international break, the Gunners host Nottingham Forest before a hellish end to September: a blockbuster at home against Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City and a trip north to face Carabao Cup holders Newcastle United at St James’ Park. 

“The league is trying to set us up,” one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter).  

“Na this league is rigged,” said another. 

 “Nobody can tell me this isn’t rigged,” a frustrated Gooner added. 

While the fixture list is generated by computer, conspiracy theories have spread like wildfire among supporters, with many claiming there’s a hidden agenda behind the scheduling. Of course, no evidence has been offered, just frustration and football banter at its finest. 

Despite the rocky start, there is a silver lining for Arsenal fans. The season’s run-in appears relatively manageable. In their final four games, the Gunners face Fulham (home), West Ham (away), Burnley (home), and Crystal Palace (away). If Arsenal are still in the title race by then, they’ll like their chances of a strong finish. 

Still, it’s the opening gauntlet that has fans raising eyebrows and sharpening their digital pitchforks. 

Whether “rigged” or just the luck of the draw, one thing is certain: Arsenal will need to hit the ground running if they’re to finally break their second-place curse.