Arsenal opened their Premier League title defence with a 3-0 victory over Coventry City at the Emirates Stadium. Kai Havertz scored the first goal of the campaign, sweeping home from 18 yards after Arsenal won the ball high up in the Coventry penalty area. Bukayo Saka capitalised on a mistake from Carl Rushworth to double the lead, before Martin Odegaard's scuffed effort after half-time made it 3-0.
Martinelli and others left out
Gabriel Martinelli was excluded from the squad for the Community Shield and was dropped once more, while Ethan Nwaneri was included after also missing last Sunday. The Brazilian has attracted attention from Galatasaray, Al-Sadd and Al-Hilal but appears no closer to settling his future. Gabriel Jesus, Fabio Vieira and Reiss Nelson were likewise absent.
Gyokeres snubbed
Arteta utilised all five substitutes but opted against introducing Viktor Gyokeres. The Swede has been connected with moves to Barcelona and Atletico Madrid in recent weeks, and it is evident he sits behind Kai Havertz in Arsenal's attacking hierarchy. Arsenal have held discussions with Atletico Madrid regarding various players and have registered an interest in Alvarez, albeit not at the current valuation it would require for Atletico to consider a sale. There has also been speculation regarding a pursuit of Galatasaray's Victor Osimhen.
Tzolis impresses again
Christos Tzolis impressed again off the left flank. He is a magnet for assists, creating chances with regularity, and his decision-making in the final third is razor-sharp. Should he be credited with the assist for Bukayo Saka, it would mean he has now registered a goal contribution in 21 of his last 22 club appearances. The sole exception was the recent friendly draw with Como, where Tzolis still fired home the decisive penalty in the shootout.
Calafiori and Rice start well
Riccardo Calafiori launched the 2026-27 campaign in superb attacking form, first breaking the deadlock in the Community Shield in Cardiff before setting up Kai Havertz for the opening goal of the new season. Declan Rice featured in 69 games for Arsenal and England last season, and both he and Saka started the opening fixture despite fitness concerns following the World Cup. Both were replaced after 66 minutes.
