Manchester City will start their fifth consecutive title defense by visiting Stamford Bridge to play against Chelsea on August 18, announced the Premier League on Tuesday.
Chelsea’s new manager, Enzo Maresca, will encounter a familiar opponent, having previously assisted Pep Guardiola during their treble-winning season and coached City’s youth team.
Manchester United, winners of the FA Cup, kick off the season by hosting Fulham on August 16, while Arsenal, last season’s league runners-up, welcome Wolverhampton Wanderers on August 17.
In other opening fixtures, Championship winners Leicester City will host Tottenham Hotspur, and Newcastle United will entertain play-off winners Southampton.
Ipswich Town, marking their return to the Premier League after 22 years of consecutive promotions, will kick off early on August 17 against Liverpool.
The Premier League is set to commence in mid-August following the removal of the mid-season break from the calendar, allowing for a more extended close-season break.