We asked Grok to rank the top 5 Premier League opening day goals. Here are the results:
1. David Beckham (1996/97, Manchester United vs Wimbledon)
Beckham’s iconic halfway-line goal is often cited as one of the most memorable Premier League opening day goals. Spotting the goalkeeper off his line from just inside his own half, Beckham launched a perfectly judged, lofted strike that sailed into the net. This goal announced him as a global talent and remains a benchmark for long-range brilliance.
— Follow @90sfootball (@90sfootballvids) July 3, 2017
2. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool vs Leeds United, 2020)
Salah’s hat-trick in Liverpool’s 4-3 thriller against Leeds included a clinical penalty and a vicious top-corner strike, but his third goal—a composed finish in the 88th minute—sealed a chaotic opening day win. Salah holds the record for most opening day goals (nine), and this hat-trick, the only one on an opening day in recent memory, stands out for its impact and drama.
𝙃𝙖𝙩-𝙩𝙧𝙞𝙘𝙠 𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙤 🤩
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) September 14, 2020
Class, @MoSalah 👌 pic.twitter.com/2l9SSE779e
3. Sergio Aguero (Manchester City vs Swansea City, 2011)
Aguero’s debut brace for Manchester City in a 4-0 win featured a clinical tap-in and a thunderous 30-yard strike. The latter, a long-range beauty, is often cited as a defining opening day moment, signaling City’s title-contending era and Agüero’s status as the league’s top overseas scorer (184 goals). Its significance and quality make it a standout.
When @aguerosergiokun announced himself in the #PL 😍#GoalOfTheDay pic.twitter.com/Y4D9S6QtQS
— Premier League (@premierleague) March 20, 2021
4. Louis Saha (Fulham vs Manchester United, 2001)
Saha’s brace in Fulham’s 3-2 loss to Manchester United included a delicate dink over Fabien Barthez, a highlight of the 2001/02 opener. As a newly promoted side, Fulham’s audacity to lead twice against United, driven by Saha’s flair, made this goal memorable for its context and execution, cementing his reputation in the top flight.
Arrival = Announced 👊@louissaha scored our first @premierleague goal OTD in 2001.#PL30 | #FFC pic.twitter.com/H4H13Cjw5I
— Fulham Football Club (@FulhamFC) August 19, 2022
5. Andre Schurrle (2014/15, Chelsea vs Burnley)
Andre Schurrle scored a stunning team goal for Chelsea against Burnley on the opening day of the 2014/15 Premier League season, contributing to a 3-1 victory at Turf Moor. This goal is often highlighted as a contender for the best opening-day goal due to its intricate build-up and execution.
On this day: 2014 - Andre Schurrle scored THIS goal for #Chelsea (vs Burnley). #CFC @Andre_Schuerrle pic.twitter.com/1ZjcPO5yN9
— Chad ⭐⭐ (@ChelseaChadder) August 18, 2019
