The first major Premier League fixture of the 2026–27 season is upon us, as champions Arsenal lock horns with potential usurpers Chelsea.
The Gunners were projected in preseason to waltz to back-to-back titles, but their inability to secure a star attacker in the transfer market has seemingly left the door ajar. And while Chelsea were miles off the pace amid a tumultuous 2025–26 season, an exciting new era has been ushered in, with Xabi Alonso leading the way.