Listen. I've been covering football for eight years now, and I thought I'd seen everything.

Then this season happened. My mate Dave texted me last week: "Did you actually check those Arsenal stats twice?" Yeah, I did. Three times, actually. Because some of this stuff is so bonkers it makes you question reality itself.

The 2025-26 Premier League season officially kicked off Wednesday (73 days before anyone actually plays, because football scheduling makes perfect sense). Leicester, Ipswich and Southampton handed their spots to Leeds, Burnley and Sunderland. Standard stuff.

But the season that just ended? Pure chaos. And I mean that in teh best possible way.

Arsenal Forgot How to Score (Seriously)

For the first time in 101 years - let that sink in - no Arsenal player hit double digits for league goals. Kai Havertz managed nine. Nine! That's fewer than some Championship strikers manage in a bad month.

Martinelli and Trossard got eight each. I watched Arsenal all season thinking "surely someone's gonna break through?" Nope. They missed out on the title to Liverpool, who - get this - added exactly ONE player to their squad. Federico Chiesa started one match. One.

My editor bet me £20 that Liverpool couldn't win it with basically the same team. I owe him money.

Kelleher: The Penalty Wizard Nobody Talks About

Caoimhin Kelleher now holds Liverpool's record for most penalty shootouts won (four) and most shootout penalties saved (six). He's played 67 games for them. Sixty-seven! Meanwhile, some keepers play 300 games and never face a shootout.

The guy's like a ghost at a penalty spot - you don't see him coming until it's too late.

United's Ferguson Era Dies With a Whimper

Jonny Evans leaving means next season will be United's first since 1973-74 without a single Ferguson player. Fifty-one years. I wasn't even born yet (barely).

Their nightmare campaign included losing ALL FOUR meetings with Tottenham, including the Europa League final. Those wins made up 15% of Spurs' total victories. Fifteen percent! From one team!

Spurs: Champions of Europe, Disasters at Home

Speaking of Tottenham... they lost 22 Premier League matches. Twenty-two. That's the most any non-relegated team has ever lost in a 38-game season.

Then they went and won the Europa League.

Now they have more European trophies than Barcelona over the last nine years. Poor Barca fans probably don't know whether to laugh or cry.

The Yamal Phenomenon Gets Weird

Lamine Yamal, at 17, has two LaLiga titles. Same as Cristiano managed in nine years at Real Madrid. The kid's got 43 goal involvements this season (18 goals, 25 assists) but somehow Jarrod Bowen outscored him in the Premier League.

Football makes no sense sometimes.

David Moyes: Secret Champions League Manager?

From when Moyes returned to Everton until season's end, they played at Champions League qualification pace. Fourth place form. The same David Moyes everyone wrote off.

I feel stupid now for doubting him back in January.

The Random Stuff That Broke My Brain

Bryan Mbeumo scored after 38 seconds against West Ham, making Brentford the first team ever to score in the opening minute of three straight games. What are the odds?

Brentford 5-3 Wolves featured eight different goalscorers, all different nationalities. The statisticians probably had a field day with that one.

Man City became the first reigning champions to lose five straight since Chelsea in 1956. Pep's reaction during that run was... memorable.

Justin Kluivert scored a hat-trick of penalties - the first in Premier League history. His teammate Evanilson won all three. Wolves' defense that day was basically non-existent.

And my personal favorite: West Ham 2-0 Leicester was the first Premier League game where three players appeared on their birthday. February 27th - Soucek, Areola, and Soumare. What are those chances? Someone do the math because I can't.

This season reminded me why I love this ridiculous sport. Just when you think you've seen everything, football finds new ways to surprise you.

Roll on next season. My brain's ready for more chaos.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best football boot for my playing surface and how do I select it?

Choosing the right football boot depends on the surface that you'll play on. If you're playing on natural grass, metal studs cleats will be best for you. For artificial grass, boots with multiple small rubber spikes (AG- artificial grass) and a flat bottom (TF- turf) offer traction and reduce the chance of injury. Indoor courts (IN), require rubber soles that do not mark the surface.

Do I need to wear specific football clothing, or is it okay to wear other athletic gear?

The clothing for football is different from other athletic wear. This is because it is specifically designed to enhance comfort and performance on the field. Jerseys and briefs are typically made from lightweight, breathable fabrics that promote airflow and reduce overheating. The fit of the jerseys and shorts is designed to provide a full range-of-motion, improving your agility and response time during play.

How do I get the correct fit for my football boot?

For a proper fit, your football boots should be snug, but not too tight. This will allow for movement, without allowing the foot to slide inside the boot. It is important to leave a small space between the toes on the boot's front and your thumb to avoid the toes being squeezed in during running or kicking. The width of the foot is also important. Choose a boot with a wide or narrow fit. For the best fit, try on boots while wearing football socks.

Can the socks a footballer wear affect their performance?

Absolutely. Football socks protect and support the player's foot during intense play. They provide cushioning, help keep shin guards secure, reduce friction and prevent blisters. A good pair of football socks can improve a player's comfort, which can indirectly influence their performance on the pitch.

Why are shinguards compulsory for footballers?

Shin guards must be worn by all footballers. They protect the lower leg, which is vulnerable to injury from collisions and tackles. These guards help protect the shins, preventing serious injuries such as severe bruising or fractures. Football's governing bodies require players to wear shinguards as a way to promote safety.

Statistics

• A survey found that nearly 80% of football players believe that high-quality football socks are essential for optimal performance.
• Approximately 40% of amateur football players wear boots that are not properly fitted, increasing the risk of foot injuries.
• Data shows that thermo-bonded footballs, known for their consistent performance, are preferred by 65% of professional football clubs for matches.
• Research has indicated that around 60% of football-related ankle injuries could be mitigated with the correct choice of footwear.
• Around 25% of youth football players have reported using equipment that is either outdated or not suited to their position on the field.

External Links

prodirectsoccer.com

• Pro-Direct Soccer

uksoccershop.com

• UKSoccerShop

fifa.com

• FIFA's Laws of the Game

soccer.com

• SOCCER.COM's Shin Guard Guide

podiatrytoday.com

• Podiatry Today’s Guide to Soccer Cleats

How To

How to Choose Comfortable and Functional Football Clothing

Selecting football apparel should be based on comfort and function. The fabric should be breathable and able to wick moisture away from the body to keep you cool and dry. If the clothing is fitted properly, it won't restrict motion or cause irritation during play. Consider materials that offer warmth without compromising mobility in colder climates. The design and fit of the socks are also important; they should secure the shin guards and provide adequate cushioning without being too thick or restrictive. Football kit customization can additionally inspire confidence and team unity.