Sunderland will begin their first European campaign since 1973 with a challenging away fixture against AC Milan at San Siro in the Europa League group stage. The Black Cats secured qualification for the competition after finishing seventh in the Premier League last season, marking only the second time in the club’s history that they have reached European competition.
The draw has paired Sunderland with several formidable opponents, including the seven-time European champions AC Milan. This fixture represents a significant milestone for Sunderland as they seek to make an impact on the continental stage after a lengthy absence.
Bournemouth, who have also earned a place in European competition for the first time, will face AC Milan as well, but their encounter will be hosted at their home ground. The Cherries’ group also includes Spanish sides Real Sociedad and Celta Vigo, reflecting a competitive set of fixtures in the Europa League.
Meanwhile, Crystal Palace, having qualified by winning the UEFA Conference League last season, will travel to Lyon, managed by their current boss Pierre Sage’s former club, as part of their group stage campaign. They will also play away fixtures at Red Bull Salzburg and will host Real Sociedad at Selhurst Park.
Additional teams competing in European tournaments include Brighton and Hearts, both of which will host Monaco in the Conference League. Scottish clubs Celtic and Rangers will also feature in European competition; Celtic will face Marseille and Benfica in their group.
On the domestic front, the Premier League weekend features Liverpool hosting Nottingham Forest at Anfield, a venue where Liverpool have suffered recent unexpected defeats to the newly promoted side. Referee Sam Barrott will oversee the match, which is scheduled for midday local time.
Notably, Bournemouth hold a strong Premier League record against Everton, having secured nine victories, their highest tally against any top-flight opponent. The Bees aim to start the league season with two consecutive wins for the first time since the 2006-07 campaign, when they were competing in League One.
Sunderland’s Premier League manager Michael Carrick remains without a win in his three matches against newly promoted clubs, registering one draw and two losses. Historically, Sunderland have struggled following poor starts to their Premier League campaigns; in past seasons where they lost their opening two fixtures, the club finished 20th and faced relegation.
This weekend’s fixtures and European matchups highlight the busy calendar ahead for English clubs as they balance domestic ambitions with continental challenges.