Coventry City returned to the Premier League after a 25-year absence before the 2026–27 season. Coventry were one of three promoted teams and opened their campaign away to defending champions Arsenal.
The club’s return was the longest of the three promoted teams’ absences. Ipswich Town had been away for one year, while Hull City had been outside the top flight for nine years. Sunderland were also promoted, but they were not part of the three-club promotion group listed for this Premier League season because the promoted trio were Coventry, Ipswich and Hull.
Coventry’s opening result was a 3–0 defeat at Emirates Stadium. That scoreline does not change their promotion status or the length of their absence. The 25-year figure identifies Coventry City specifically and separates them from the other newcomers.