Arsenal were the defending champions at the start of the 2026–27 Premier League opening weekend.
Arsenal won the previous Premier League title in the 2025–26 season, ending Manchester City’s run of dominance in the competition. Their championship was their first Premier League title in 22 years, making the 2026–27 campaign especially important for the club.
The champions began their defense at home against newly promoted Coventry City on 21 August 2026. Arsenal won 3–0 at Emirates Stadium, immediately placing themselves among the leading teams after the first round.
Being the defending champion does not guarantee finishing first after opening weekend. Brighton & Hove Albion led the table after the first round because their 4–0 victory over Aston Villa produced a better goal difference than Arsenal’s 3–0 win. Arsenal nevertheless started with three points and a clean sheet.