Arsenal start Premier League title defence against Coventry on opening weekend

The Premier League returns on Friday 21 August with champions Arsenal hosting Coventry City in a night that marks both the start of a title defence and the end of a 25-year wait for the promoted side. The opening weekend sees all 20 clubs in action across four days. Hull City, another promoted club, face a baptism of fire against Manchester United on Saturday, while Ipswich entertain Sunderland. Sunday’s standout fixture sends Andoni Iraola, Liverpool’s new manager, to Newcastle for his debut. Manchester City begin life after Pep Guardiola at home to Bournemouth on the same day. Other games include Everton against Crystal Palace, Nottingham Forest versus Leeds, Brentford against Tottenham, and Brighton hosting Aston Villa. The weekend concludes on Monday with Xabi Alonso’s first match as Chelsea manager at Fulham. Sky Sports will broadcast six opening weekend fixtures live, including Arsenal v Coventry, Manchester City v Bournemouth, and Newcastle v Liverpool. Fans can access Sky Sports via the £44 Ultimate TV and Sky Sports bundle, which includes Netflix, HBO Max and Disney+. Existing Sky TV customers can add Sky Sports from £20 per month. TNT Sports will show Hull v Manchester United; a subscription costs £30.99 through HBO Max or Prime Video’s TNT Sports channel. The opening weekend promises a dramatic start to a season defined by change at the top, with Arsenal seeking to defend their first title in 22 years.