Arsenal open the season — 3:0 vs Coventry City
Defending champions Arsenal kicked off the 2026/27 campaign on Friday evening at the Emirates, comfortably beating promoted Coventry City 3:0. The Gunners looked assured and well-organised — a professional, no-fuss start to their title defence. Arteta will be satisfied, though Coventry were far from the toughest test the season will bring.
The shock of the day — Hull City 2:0 Manchester United
The biggest surprise of the opening weekend. Hull City, newly promoted to the Premier League after years away, stunned Manchester United 2:0 at the MKM Stadium. Ajayi headed in from a corner in the 17th minute and Mendy made it 2:0 on the counter-attack in the 38th. United could not find a way back after the break. Losing to a promoted side on the opening day is a nightmare scenario, and Old Trafford will demand answers.
Brentford 3:0 Tottenham — new manager, same problems
Tottenham under Thomas Frank got off to a disastrous start. Brentford, Frank's former club, beat him 3:0 in the most awkward possible script for the new Spurs boss. Three goals, zero shots on target for Tottenham — this has to hurt. Frank was brought in to bring stability and a new identity, but this was the worst possible opening to his tenure.
Brighton demolish Aston Villa 4:0
Brighton & Hove Albion put on one of the best individual performances of the opening weekend, thrashing Aston Villa 4:0. The Seagulls temporarily went top of the table and sent a clear message — they mean business this season. For Aston Villa, it was a painful start after an impressive previous campaign.
Newcastle 2:2 Liverpool — drama to the end
At St James' Park, Liverpool escaped with a point. Newcastle led and the Reds equalised deep in stoppage time. A point away from home, though there is plenty for Liverpool to work on. Manchester City staged a late comeback to beat Bournemouth 2:1 — two goals in the closing stages rescued the Citizens. Leeds United won 1:0 at Nottingham Forest, Everton beat Crystal Palace 2:0, and Ipswich Town edged Sunderland 2:1 in a promoted-sides derby.
Monday night: Fulham vs Chelsea
The round closes with Monday's match between Fulham and Chelsea (kick-off 9:00 PM). The Blues under Enzo Maresca begin their season — the result will complete the full picture of Matchday 1.