A new Premier League season means 380 matches, 20 clubs and one long, unpredictable road to May. Here’s your guide to how the 2026/27 campaign is structured and where to follow it as it unfolds.
## Key Dates This Season
The campaign kicked off in late August following the traditional Community Shield curtain-raiser, in which Arsenal thrashed Manchester City 3-0 in Cardiff. From there, all 20 clubs play each other home and away across 38 matchweeks, with the traditional festive fixture pile-up and a spring run-in deciding the title, European places and relegation.
## How the Table Works
Points, then goal difference, then goals scored decide the final standings. The top four qualify for the Champions League, with places five and six typically heading into the Europa League picture, while the bottom three drop into the Championship.
## Following the Table as the Season Develops
Early results have already been telling. Arsenal’s dominant Community Shield form carried into the league, while Manchester City’s stuttering start under new manager Enzo Maresca has raised early questions. For the latest breakdown of where every club stands, see our full Premier League table and title race update.
## Golden Boot Watch
Alongside the table, the race for the league’s top scorer is always worth following. Our Golden Boot tracker breaks down who’s setting the early pace this season.
## Where the Big Fixtures Sit
If you’re planning your weekend around the biggest games, our football matches this weekend roundup highlights the standout fixtures each round, while our matches today guide covers kick-off times and how to watch.
## The Bottom Line
Nine months of football lie ahead, and plenty will change between now and May. Bookmark this as your entry point to the season, and check our complete football calendar for how the Premier League fits alongside the Champions League and international breaks throughout the year.