The Premier League fixtures for the 2026/27 season have been released on Friday morning, with defending champions Arsenal learning their opening opponents. The Gunners will begin their title defense on Saturday, August 22, a week later than the previous campaign to allow player recovery after the World Cup in North America.
Season Structure and Key Dates
The upcoming season will consist of 33 weekends and five midweek rounds. Boxing Day football returns on December 26, falling on a Saturday. The Premier League has confirmed that no two match rounds will take place within 60 hours during the Christmas and New Year period to address the congested schedule within the expanded international calendar.
Arsenal's Title Defense
Arsenal go into the season as defending champions for the first time since 2004/05, when they finished second. Manager Mikel Arteta becomes the first Arsenal boss since Arsene Wenger to defend a Premier League title. The Gunners can become only the second club since 2009 to retain their crown.
Changes at Top Clubs
This season marks the first in a decade without Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. Liverpool and Chelsea both begin with new managers, while Manchester United aim to build on momentum under Michael Carrick.
Coventry City's Return
Frank Lampard has led Coventry City back to the Premier League after a 25-year absence. The Sky Blues won the Championship title and will look to prove themselves in the top flight.
Mirror Football will provide full coverage of all fixture release day updates.
