The Premier League season’s opening week is always full of excitement, but it’s the shocking upsets that make the headlines. Over the years, we’ve seen some truly unexpected results that left fans and pundits in disbelief. Here are the five biggest Premier League opening upsets in history.
1. Leicester City 4-2 Manchester United (2014-15)
Leicester City’s stunning 4-2 victory over Manchester United in the opening match of the 2014-15 season was one of the most shocking Premier League opening upsets.
Manchester United, under new manager Louis van Gaal, were heavy favorites, but Leicester’s quick counter-attacks and fearless play stunned everyone. This game set the stage for Leicester’s rise to the top.
2. Chelsea 2-3 Burnley (2017-18)
Burnley’s 3-2 win over Chelsea in the 2017-18 season opener is still remembered as one of the biggest Premier League opening upset. Chelsea the defending champions, were expected to dominate at Stamford Bridge but Burnley fought back fiercely. This unexpected result marked the start of a difficult season for Chelsea.
3. Arsenal 1-2 Aston Villa (2013-14)
Aston Villa shocked Arsenal 2-1 in the 2013-14 season opener at the Emirates. Arsenal were clear favorites, but Villa’s efficient counter-attacks and solid defense left the Gunners stunned.
This Premier League opening upset set the tone for a challenging season for Arsenal, who struggled to bounce back.
4. Manchester City 2-3 Tottenham Hotspur (2019-20)
In one of the biggest upsets, Tottenham Hotspur defeated Manchester City 3-2 at the Etihad Stadium in the 2019-20 season. Despite Manchester City’s dominance in previous seasons, Spurs’ fast-paced play and clinical finishing surprised the reigning champions.
5. Wigan Athletic 4-0 Newcastle United (2012-13)
Wigan’s 4-0 thrashing of Newcastle United in the 2012-13 season opener remains one of the most surprising upsets.
Wigan, typically seen as underdogs, outplayed Newcastle with impressive attacking play, making this one of the most shocking results in opening week history.
Conclusion
These Premier League opening upsets show that anything can happen when the new season kicks off. Whether it’s an underdog victory or a big team’s early slip-up, the opening week always promises surprises that fans will never forget.
See who is the EI Clasico Highest Goalscorer?
