So you’re looking to get into the Premier League, huh? Buckle up – you’re in for one wild ride. The Premier League is the top tier of English football, featuring some of the biggest clubs in the world like Manchester United, Liverpool, and Chelsea. The season runs from August to May, with all 20 teams playing 38 matches total, half at home and half away.
Matches are played nearly every weekend, so there’s almost always world-class football to enjoy. The fast-paced, physical style of play and passionate fans create an electric atmosphere whether you’re watching at the pub or right from the stands. Each match is a story in itself, full of twists and turns that will have you on the edge of your seat until the final whistle.
The history, rivalries, and prestige surrounding Premier League football have captivated fans all over the globe. Once you start following your favorite club each week, you’ll quickly become just as dedicated as the rest. The Premier League is truly football at its finest – are you ready to join the party?
Introduction to the English Premier League
The English Premier League, or EPL, is the top level of England’s football league system. It’s considered one of the best and most exciting football leagues in the world. The EPL season runs from August to May, with each of the 20 teams playing 38 games total, 19 at home and 19 away.
The Teams
The EPL features some of the most well-known football clubs, like Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, and Chelsea. These powerhouse teams have dominated the league for decades, but in recent years smaller clubs like Leicester City have also made a name for themselves after surprise title wins.
The Games
EPL games are action-packed, fast-paced, and highly competitive. Tickets often sell out quickly, especially for matchups between rival teams like Arsenal vs Tottenham or Manchester United vs Liverpool. If you’re lucky enough to score tickets, prepare for an amazing experience and atmosphere. Fans are extremely passionate, singing team anthems at the top of their lungs, waving banners and flags, and cheering on their club.
The Season
The season culminates in May with all 20 teams competing for the Premier League title. The team with the most points at the end of 38 games is crowned the champion. The bottom three teams with the fewest points face relegation to the lower EFL Championship division, while the top teams qualify for European competition like the Champions League and Europa League.
There’s never a dull moment in the action-packed EPL season. With elite players, historic rivalries, dedicated fans, and unpredictable outcomes, Premier League football is world-class entertainment.
Key Details on Premier League Games
So you want the full Premier League experience, huh? Buckle up, because here are the key details you need to know.
Matchdays
Premier League games are played almost every weekend from August to May, with all 20 teams playing on both Saturday and Sunday. The schedule is released in June so you can start planning which of the 380 matches to catch!
Getting Tickets
Unless it’s a big rivalry match, tickets are usually easy to come by. Prices range from £30-£100 depending on the teams and seats. Buy tickets on the club’s official website or through ticket resellers for the best deals. For the most popular teams like Manchester United or Liverpool, you’ll want to buy tickets 2-3 months in advance.
Matchday Experience
Show up to the stadium at least an hour before kickoff to soak in the atmosphere, grab some food and drinks, and find your seat. The fans are passionate so be ready to chant, sing and cheer along – just follow the fans around you! Halftime is 15 minutes, enough time for a bathroom break, more snacks, and a quick chat about the first half action.
After the Match
Head to a pub near the stadium after the final whistle to discuss the result over a pint with fellow fans. Win or lose, the post-match analysis and banter is all part of the adventure!
Premier League games are an experience like no other for any football fan. Now that you know what to expect, get out there and support your club!
Where to Watch Premier League Games
So you want to watch the Premier League but don’t know where to start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here are the best ways and places to catch all the action of the Premier League:
Streaming Services
Streaming platforms like NBC Sports and Peacock offer live and on-demand coverage of Premier League matches. NBC Sports has the rights to air all 380 matches each season in the US. Their streaming service, NBC Sports Gold, provides live streaming and on-demand replays of each match. Peacock, NBC’s new streaming service, will also provide live and on-demand Premier League coverage starting with the 2020-2021 season. These streaming options give you the flexibility to watch whenever and wherever you want.
Cable
If you have cable or satellite TV, many providers offer NBC Sports and NBC Sports Gold as part of their channel lineup. Check with your provider to see which Premier League matches they will be airing each matchweek. Some of the major providers that offer NBC Sports include AT&T TV Now, Hulu with Live TV, Sling TV, and YouTube TV.
Sports Bars
Heading to your local sports bar is a great way to watch matches and soak in the atmosphere with other fans. Many sports bars open early for Premier League matchdays and provide multiple TVs to show all the concurrent games. Call ahead to check which bars in your area will be showing the matches you want to see. Some large chains like Buffalo Wild Wings also frequently air major soccer matches.
Stadiums
For the ultimate Premier League experience, head to the stadium to watch a match in person. All 20 Premier League clubs offer tickets for home matches on their official websites. Prices and availability will vary depending on the club and opponent. If you’re visiting the UK, catching a Premier League match at one of the iconic stadia like Old Trafford or Anfield should definitely be on your list. Singing “You’ll Never Walk Alone” with 50,000 other Liverpool fans at Anfield is an experience you’ll never forget!
Best Matches to Look Out for This Season
The Premier League season is filled with exciting matches, but a few really stand out as must-watch games. Here are four of the best matches to look out for this season:
Liverpool vs Manchester United (October 24, 2021)
The rivalry between Liverpool and Manchester United is one of the biggest in English football. Dubbed the “North West Derby,” games between these two titans are always thrilling. With star players like Mo Salah, Bruno Fernandes and Cristiano Ronaldo, this matchup promises to be an action-packed one.
Arsenal vs Tottenham (September 26, 2021)
The first North London derby of the season is sure to be a feisty affair. Arsenal and Tottenham have a long-standing rivalry, and their derby matches are usually dramatic, intense, and full of goals. Both teams have exciting young talent like Bukayo Saka and Harry Kane, so expect an entertaining, high-scoring game.
Chelsea vs Manchester City (September 25, 2021)
This early season showdown will be a test for two title contenders. Chelsea, the reigning European champions, will host Manchester City, the defending Premier League champions. With world-class players like Kevin De Bruyne, Raheem Sterling and Romelu Lukaku on display, this matchup could have a major impact on the title race.
West Ham United vs Leicester City (October 16, 2021)
West Ham and Leicester City were two of the surprise teams last season, finishing in the top 6. This game will showcase two of the most exciting teams in the Premier League and feature standout players like Jamie Vardy, Youri Tielemans and Michail Antonio. With both teams fighting for another top 6 finish, this should be an intense, open game.
FAQs About Premier League Games
So you’ve decided to attend a Premier League game—great choice! Here are some common questions and answers to help you prepare for match day:
When does the Premier League season run?
The Premier League season typically runs from August to May. Each team plays 38 matches total, 19 at home and 19 away. The specific schedule for each season is announced in June, so you’ll want to check then to find the dates of the matches you’re interested in attending.
How do I get tickets?
You have a few options for purchasing tickets:
- Buy directly from the team’s official website. Most tickets go on sale 2-4 weeks before match day. Sign up for the team’s newsletter to get notified as soon as tickets become available.
- Check with your team’s fan clubs or supporters’ groups. They often have tickets reserved for members. Joining a supporters’ group is a great way to get tickets and connect with other fans.
- Try ticket resellers like StubHub, SeatGeek or Ticketmaster. Be very wary of scalpers selling fake or stolen tickets outside the stadium on match day.
- For some matches, a limited number of tickets are held for general sale on the Premier League website. Sign up for ticket alerts to get notified when they go on sale.
What should I bring to the match?
Bring a few essential items:
- Your printed ticket or mobile ticket on your phone. Have it ready to be scanned at the turnstiles.
- Proper attire for the weather—rain jacket, hat, scarf, gloves. English weather is unpredictable!
- A small bag to carry everything. Backpacks and large bags are not allowed in most stadiums.
- Cash for food, drinks and merchandise. Some stadiums are cashless but cash is still widely accepted.
- A camera. Non-professional lenses are allowed but check with the specific stadium regulations.
- A charger or portable phone charger. You’ll want to capture and share lots of memories from the match!
Can I bring food and drinks into the stadium?
Most Premier League stadiums do not allow fans to bring in outside food and drinks. Everything must be purchased in the stadium. However, some medical exemptions are allowed if you contact the club in advance. It’s best to eat before you arrive at the stadium.
Have a great time at the match! Let me know if you have any other questions.
Conclusion
You’ve now got everything you need to fully enjoy watching your favorite Premier League team. From knowing the basic rules of the game to being able to follow the league standings to understanding the drama of relegation, you’ll feel like a true fan. The Premier League really does have something for everyone with its mix of history, passion, and top-notch play. So grab your scarf, get to the pub, tune in on TV, or stream online – just make sure you catch the matches each week. The fast-paced, hard-fought action of the Premier League awaits. You’ll be singing team songs and chanting player names before you know it. Welcome to the exciting world of Premier League football!
