The Premier League resumed this weekend, and it was The Gunners who kickstarted things at the Emirates against newly promoted Coventry City. It’s one of the easiest games on Arsenal’s calendar, but the Gunners still maintained their standards as they easily saw off Frank Lampard’s men 3-0 to go top of the Premier League table, where they hope to stay until the end of May 2027.
The Gunners named a strong starting 11 and wasted no time as Calafiori set up Havertz for the first goal, Saka scored the second, and a revitalized Odegaard grabbed the third goal.
Although new midfield signing Bruno Guimaraes missed out due to injury, Greek winger Christos Tzolis impressed Arsenal fans and was heavily involved in positive attacking moments in the game as Arteta’s men set the pace for the 2026/27 campaign.
Manchester United were the second top-six side to play early on Saturday afternoon, and they were expected to get all three points against another newly promoted side in Hull City. However, Manchester United sliced the hopes of any title challenge among their fans with a woeful performance. Hull City scored two goals through defenders Semi Ajayi and Mendy.
United found it hard to create quality chances against a side that defended deeply and were quick on the counterattack. Marcus Rashford came on, and although he looked a bright spark, he wasn’t able to inspire Manchester United to a comeback in the second half.
It looks like it might be another season where United continue to fall short, especially against teams they’re expected to beat.
Manchester City impressively came from behind to beat Bournemouth, but they struggled to open up The Cherries for a big part of the game as Enzo Maresca’s inverting number 10s failed to create good chances until Rayan Cherki came on to cross in a brilliant corner for Guehi to head home. He also found Gvardiol to win the game late on.
City look set on the style of their new manager, but they need to do more in the transfer window to get closer to Arsenal.
Liverpool also failed to inspire against a “weakened” Newcastle side. The Reds were saved by a last-minute penalty as Newcastle came close to sealing their first league win under new manager Matthias Jassiele.
Liverpool also still need at least one defensive midfielder and a few attacking options to get near Arsenal’s level.
Roberto De Zerbi’s Tottenham and their €400 million investments were defeated in West London away at Brentford 3-0 as the Bees continue to shock Premier League fans season upon season.
With the first round of Premier League football almost done, it is incredibly clear that Arsenal are overwhelmingly the best team in the League, and they will need some stopping if any other team is to dethrone them.
