Arsenal begin title defence against Coventry in new Premier League season

Arsenal begin their Premier League title defence on Friday against promoted Coventry City at the Emirates Stadium, with manager Mikel Arteta insisting his side are not defending but attacking another title. Arsenal are the clear favourites, with the Opta supercomputer giving them a 38 percent probability of retaining the trophy Source: Al Jazeera. The club's last successful defence of the top-flight crown dates back to 1934-35 Source: Al Jazeera.

Title race

Arsenal's main rivals are in flux. Manchester City begin life after Pep Guardiola under new manager Enzo Maresca, while Liverpool (Andoni Iraola), Chelsea (Xabi Alonso) and Newcastle (Matthias Jaissle) also have new coaches Source: AP News. Manchester United, under Michael Carrick, are also expected to challenge after a strong finish last season Source: Al Jazeera.

Key absences

Arsenal will be without defender William Saliba due to a back injury Source: AP News. New signing Bruno Guimaraes is a doubt for the opener after picking up a knock in the Community Shield Source: CNA.

Coventry's return

Coventry are back in the top flight after a 25-year absence, having won the Championship under Frank Lampard Source: AP News. The club has endured liquidation and groundshares in recent years, making their return a cause for celebration Source: AP News.

Transfer speculation

Arteta confirmed that Myles Lewis-Skelly will stay at the club, despite reports he was offered to Manchester United and Chelsea Source: The Guardian. The manager also said Martin Zubimendi remains an integral part of the squad Source: The Guardian.