For the first time in 22 years, Arsenal is entering a Premier League season as defending champion.
The Gunners will have the honor of kicking off the 2026-27 season on Friday, Aug. 21 when they host newly promoted Coventry City.
Mikel Arteta has already led his side to some silverware in the early season, as Arsenal swept aside Manchester City, 3-0, in the Community Shield last weekend.
But now the real season begins, starting with a game that looks highly winnable on paper.
Coventry dominated the Championship last season, but facing the defending champions away in their first top-flight match in 25 years is another test entirely.
Arsenal will have most of its key players available, though Jurrien Timber and William Saliba are both still injured.
Bruno Guimarães came off at halftime against City but Arteta said this week he was "evolving well" and hoping to be involved on Friday.
Here's who could start for Arsenal in Friday's Premier League opener:
Arsenal projected lineup vs Coventry City
- Goalkeeper: David Raya
- Defenders: Ben White, Cristhian Mosquera, Gabriel, Riccardo Calafiori
- Midfielders: Declan Rice, Bruno Guimarães, Martin Ødegaard
- Forwards: Christos Tzolis, Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka
When is Arsenal vs Coventry City?
- When: Friday, Aug. 21
- Where: Emirates Stadium (London, England)
- Time: 3 p.m. ET
- Channel/streaming: USA Network (Watch LIVE on Sling), Universo
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Arsenal projected lineup vs Coventry City: How will Gunners begin opener?
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