SECOND-TIER champions Coventry City will travel to title holders Arsenal in the first match of the 2026-2027 English Premier League season, according to the fixtures released today.
The season’s curtain raiser on Friday, August 21 sees the Sky Blues play their first top-flight match in 25 years against the Gunners, who were led to their first Premier League title since 2004 by Mikel Arteta last season.
Hull City, who had Super Eagles defender Semi Ajayi playing a key role as they went up via the play-offs, host Manchester United on Saturday, August 22, while fellow promoted side Ipswich are at home to Sunderland on the same day.
Manchester City begin life without Pep Guardiola at home to Bournemouth on Sunday, August 23 as the Cherries also start the campaign with a new manager in Marco Rose.
Liverpool’s first match under Andoni Iraola, who replaced the sacked Arne Slot after leaving Bournemouth, is away at Newcastle on the same day.
Chelsea start life under Xabi Alonso away at Fulham on Monday, August 24, with the Cottagers also still to appoint a new manager after Marco Silva’s departure.
OPENING WEEKEND FUXTURES
Friday, August 21
Arsenal v Coventry
Saturday, August 22
Hull City v Manchester United
Everton v Crystal Palace
Ipswich v Sunderland
Nottingham Forest v Leeds
Brentford v Tottenham
Sunday, August 23
Brighton v Aston Villa
Manchester City v Bournemouth
Newcastle v Liverpool
Monday, 24 August
Fulham v Chelsea
