Arsenal were the reigning champions when the 2026–27 Premier League opening weekend began.
They opened their title defence by hosting promoted Coventry City at Emirates Stadium on Friday 21 August 2026. The fixture gave the champions the first match of the new Premier League season.
Arsenal's championship had ended a 22-year wait for a Premier League title, according to the season's historical summary. Their status as defending champions distinguished the opening fixture from the other nine matches in the first match round.
Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea were among the other prominent clubs involved in opening-round fixtures, but none was listed as the defending champion. Manchester City hosted AFC Bournemouth, Liverpool travelled to Newcastle United, and Chelsea ended the round away to Fulham on Monday evening.