After a long and busy summer of World Cup action, managerial changes and signings it is almost time for the Premier League to return. Can Mikel Artetas Arsenal side defend their title? How will Coventry, Hull and Ipswich fare on their return to the top flight?And who are the new faces to keep an eye on? Heres five big games to keep an eye on before the end of the transfer windowArsenal vs Coventry City (Friday 21 August, 20:00 BST)Reigning Premier League champions Arsenal kick off the 202627 campaign at the Emirates against newly promoted Coventry City, who return to the top flight after winning the Championship. Mikel Artetas titleholders remain the benchmark for stability, retaining their title-winning core while adding depth in summer recruitment.For the Sky Blues, this opening fixture represents an immediate baptism of fire. Coventry must adjust to top-tier intensity against the divisions most formidable side. An explosive Friday night opener, this clash tests Coventrys top-flight survival credentials while offering Arsenal a chance to set a dominant early marker.Hull City vs Manchester United (Saturday 22 August, 12:30 BST)Championship play-off winners Hull City celebrate their Premier League return with a blockbuster Saturday curtain-raiser against Manchester United. Michael Carricks Red Devils enter the campaign under intense scrutiny to deliver consistent results after a busy window of squad refinement.Hull, back in the big time after navigating a grueling play-off campaign, will rely on electric home support to rattle their illustrious visitors. This fixture offers United a tricky early test of momentum, while giving the newly promoted Tigers a prime opportunity to score a memorable opening-day upset on home turf.Newcastle United vs Liverpool (Sunday 23 August, 16:30 BST)St. James Park hosts an opening-weekend marquee fixture between two heavyweights entering fresh eras under new leadership. Matthias Jaissle is expected to be in the Newcastle dugout after the departure of Eddie Howe, bolstered by new additions such as goalkeeper Lukas Hornek but having seen several key players leave.Opposite him stands Andoni Iraola, making his competitive Liverpool debut after succeeding Arne Slot at Anfield. Always a must-watch, this game will also be poignant as both clubs mark the recent death of legendary figure Kevin Keegan.Fulham vs Chelsea (Monday 24 August, 20:00 BST)A fiery Monday night West London derby at Craven Cottage sees both clubs opening their campaign under newly appointed Spanish head coaches. lvaro Arbeloa takes charge of Fulham, seeking to maintain top-flight momentum following key arrivals like forward Gonzalo Garca.Meanwhile, Xabi Alonso steps into the Chelsea hotseat, supported by high-profile summer signings including centre-back Maxence Lacroix and most impressively of all, record signing �117m man Morgan Rogers. Local pride and early momentum are on the line as two former Real Madrid teammates clash on the touchline, making this derby an unmissable showdown on opening weekend.Aston Villa vs Arsenal (Monday 31 August, 20:00 BST)August closes with a titanic Monday night duel at Villa Park as Unai Emerys Aston Villa host reigning champions Arsenal. Villa have enjoyed an up-and-down summer window, integrating marquee additions such as Alejandro Garnacho on loan and midfielder Jo�o Gomes but also losing Rogers.Facing his former club, Emery will look to exploit home advantage and disrupt Arsenals title defence before the international break. With both teams harbouring serious top-four and title ambitions, this high-octane encounter serves as the first major litmus test for the Gunners crown in the 202627 season. Topics Arsenal F.C. Aston Villa F.C. Chelsea F.C. Coventry City F.C. Liverpool F.C. Manchester City F.C. Manchester United F.C. Newcastle United F.C. Tottenham Hotspur F.C. Add us as a preferred source on Google If you enjoy reading this article, you can help support our independent football journalism by adding 101 Great Goals as a preferred source You Should Also Read Arsenal third kit 26/27: Watch video, full details on new shirt and strip Ben Miller 4th August, 2026 Friendlies: Kamara scores on Villa return as Bayern also win on tour Tom Rostance 4th August, 2026 Arsenal close to deal for Newcastle captain Guimaraes 101 GreatGoals 4th August, 2026 Vinicius Jr hints his future lies at Real Madrid in potential blow for Arsenal Jon Fisher 4th August, 2026 I have to be a leader says Foden as he starts new Man City chapter Tom Rostance 4th August, 2026 There are things we need to do New City boss Maresca expecting some signings Tom Rostance 4th August, 2026
