The five Premier League teams with the hardest opening games as Arsenal prepare for a tough title defence
The 2026/27 Premier League season kicks off on Friday, August 21, with Arsenal welcoming Coventry City to the Emirates Stadium. Fans everywhere are feeling hopeful and excited for what’s ahead.
Every team wants to start strong, whether they’re aiming for the title, a spot in Europe, or just trying to avoid relegation worries. Some fans will be crossing their fingers that their team makes it to the first international break without any big setbacks, especially if the start looks tough.
SPORTbible has taken a look at the five clubs facing the toughest starts this season.
The reigning champions, Arsenal, might’ve hoped for an easier start while defending their title. But in the Premier League, there’s no such thing as an easy game. The Gunners are confident about beating Coventry, who are full of confidence after winning the Championship, but it could be a tricky first match. Next up, Arsenal visit Aston Villa, where they lost last season, then play Chelsea at home. After that, they travel to Sunderland, a place they only managed a draw last season, and finally, head to Brighton before the international break.
Coventry City is back in the Premier League for the first time in 25 years! Their first challenge? Facing Arsenal away—a tough opener. Then they host Hull City in what could be a critical match early on, before traveling to face Manchester City, Brighton, and Nottingham Forest.
Hull City earned promotion through the playoffs and are considered likely to fight relegation. A good start is crucial, as they know from past experience that climbing away from the bottom takes time. Their tough schedule includes hosting Manchester United, then traveling to Coventry, hosting Aston Villa, visiting Chelsea, and finishing before the break at Newcastle.
Newcastle’s season starts with big changes—manager Eddie Howe resigned, and Matthias Jaissle steps in. The club also lost key players over the summer. Their first game is at home against Liverpool, a team they’ve struggled with recently. Next up: a trip to Spurs, then back home to Bournemouth, off to Leeds, and finishing the pre-break games hosting Hull.
Fulham fans might feel their team has the hardest start, especially with new manager Alvaro Arbeloa just settling in. They kick off against fierce rivals Chelsea at home, then head to Sunderland, who have a strong home record. After that, Fulham hosts Crystal Palace, then travels to Liverpool, and finally faces Manchester United at home. It won’t be easy, but the team will be eager to find their rhythm.
All in all, the start of the season promises plenty of excitement and tough battles for these clubs!