Burnley fixtures: Clarets begin Premier League return with unforgiving early schedule

That remarkable stability underpinned a 100-point season and 33-game unbeaten run, but several key figures from that back line have since departed. With a reshuffled defence and tougher opposition ahead, Scott Parker faces an early test of how quickly his side can adapt.

Burnley fixtures 2025:

August 16: Tottenham v Burnley

August 23: Burnley v Sunderland

August 30: Man Utd v Burnley

September 14: Burnley v Liverpool

September 20: Burnley v Nottingham Forest

Burnley face a baptism of fire in their opening fixtures - a run that will test their resilience from the first match. They kick off away at Tottenham, a team eager to bounce back after a difficult season, making for a challenging start.

They then return home to face Sunderland, a promoted side they narrowly lost 1-0 to and drew 0-0 with last season. This fixture is a crucial early test in what could be a survival fight, offering Burnley a key opportunity to get points on the board.

Next is a trip to Old Trafford, where Manchester United, despite recent struggles, have a new-look attacking threat that the Clarets must contain. The following game sees Liverpool visit Turf Moor, where the focus may be more on performance and damage control given Liverpool's relentless style.

The run closes with a home match against Nottingham Forest, a strong mid-table side expected to challenge for a comfortable league finish. This mix of tough tests and crucial matchups will demand focus and resilience as Burnley settle back into Premier League life.

The Lancashire-based outift have lost key defensive players this window, including goalkeeper James Trafford and defender CJ Egan-Riley. To fill those gaps, they've brought in experienced additions like Martin Dubravka in goal and defenders Kyle Walker and Axel Tuanzebe, who add leadership and Premier League know-how. Bashir Humphreys also strengthens the backline, while midfield and attack have been bolstered by Lesley Ugochukwu, Armando Broja, and creative wide players Marcus Edwards, Loum Tchaouna, Jaidon Anthony, and Jacob Bruun Larsen.

Parker will need time to mould these new pieces into a coherent shape, but the foundation of last season's success - discipline, compactness, and work rate - remains the benchmark. He's under no illusions about the step up.

"We know this league demands more focus, more discipline, more bravery. But this is a group that's already shown it knows how to win, how to defend, and how to play for each other. That won't change," said the Clarets boss.

Burnley standings - Historic log positions

2020/21 - 17th

2021/22 - 18th

2022/23 - 1st (Championship)

2023/24 - 19th

2024/25 - 2nd (Championship)