Reds handed tough opening three games in their title defence

Liverpool have been handed a tough opening three fixtures as they set about defending their Premier League crown in 2020/21.

Jurgen Klopp’s side will face newly-promoted Leeds United at home on an opening day on September 12th, two weeks after the Community Shield.

The Reds then face the difficult away trip to Stamford Bridge to face Frank Lampard’s Chelsea who will be a different proposition to last season after a host of new arrivals.

The defending champions will then welcome Mikel Arteta’s rejuvenated Arsenal side to Anfield to complete their opening three matches of the campaign.

The first Merseyside derby of the season is scheduled for October 17th at Goodison Park before the return fixture towards the end of February when everybody will hope fans can be back in attendance.

The Reds have to wait until January to renew their oldest and perhaps greatest rivalry as they welcome Manchester United to Anfield. Klopp’s side will then head to Old Trafford for the return clash on May 1st.

There is a shorter wait before the first Manchester City fixture as Liverpool face their newest and of recent times closest rivals on November 7th, the first encounter at the Etihad in Manchester before the Reds host last seasons runners up on February 6th.

On Boxing Day, Liverpool face another newly-promoted side, West Brom, at home.

Liverpool finish the season at home on May 23rd with a visit from Crystal Palace, hopefully, toasting to the champions of England once more.

Whilst no Premier League matches are easy, Liverpool have certainly been handed a difficult opening set of fixtures. Leeds will be buoyed by being back in the top flight for the first time in 16 seasons, whilst both Chelsea and Arsenal will be out to prove they have what it takes to compete with the Reds this time around.