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Liverpool began their 2025-26 Premier League season with a fixture against AFC Bournemouth. The matchup at Anfield saw Liverpool aiming to continue their strong record against Bournemouth, who have never won at Anfield and only once managed a draw there in Premier League history. Liverpool have won 11 of the last 12 league meetings against Bournemouth, including dominant recent results such as 4-0 and 3-0 victories in previous seasons.

Manager Arne Slot faced selection challenges with the absence of young forward Ben Doak, who was withdrawn from the squad amid escalating transfer talks with Bournemouth potentially sealing a deal worth around £25 million. Doak was unlikely to get many minutes at Liverpool due to competition from established players like Mo Salah and new signing Jeremie Frimpong, who is expected to provide right wing depth. Other Premier League clubs like Leeds, Nottingham Forest, and West Ham were also reportedly interested in Doak.

The summer of 2025 was a highly active transfer window for Liverpool, marked by record-breaking signings and significant player departures. The club spent over €308 million on incoming players, making it the biggest transfer summer in their Premier League history. Departures of key players including Luis Diaz, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Caoimhin Kelleher, and others brought in considerable funds, allowing Arne Slot to invest heavily in strengthening the squad. Despite the large gross spend, Liverpool's net spend was controlled through sales, reflecting the club's usual "sell to buy" approach.

On the pitch for the season opener against Bournemouth, Liverpool hoped to maintain their unbeaten start streak—having not lost their opening league game in the past 12 seasons. The club's ambitions for sustained title defense were underscored by their activity in the transfer market and strategic squad decisions ahead of the match.

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