Arsenal 2026 Preseason: Schedule, Results, and Key Details for the Gunners
After clinching a historic Premier League title last season, Arsenal now shift their focus to the upcoming 2026/27 season. The team aims to come back refreshed, even as many players have just finished representing their countries at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which complicates the preseason preparation with various recovery needs.
The previous season was demanding, with Arsenal not only winning the Premier League but also reaching the Champions League final. The heavy minutes took a toll on the squad, leading to injuries that lingered into the World Cup, leaving some players without full recovery time.
Below is a detailed look at Arsenal's preseason matches, expected return of World Cup participants, and the kickoff dates for their new campaign.
2026 Arsenal Preseason Fixtures and Results
- Opponent: Girona (W 4-1)
- Date: Saturday, August 1
- Location: Estadi Municipal de Montilivi, Girona, Spain
- Kickoff Time (ET): 2 p.m.
- Opponent: Real Betis
- Date: Wednesday, August 5
- Location: Aviva Stadium, Dublin, Ireland
- Kickoff Time (ET): 2:30 p.m.
- Opponent: Borussia Dortmund
- Date: Sunday, August 9
- Location: Emirates Stadium, London, England
- Kickoff Time (ET): 9 a.m.
- Opponent: Como
- Date: Wednesday, August 12
- Location: Emirates Stadium, London, England
- Kickoff Time (ET): 2:30 p.m.
Where Will Arsenal Play Their Preseason Games?
The preseason begins with an away match against Girona in Catalonia on August 1. Girona recently dropped to Spain's Segunda Division, a sharp contrast after their recent Champions League qualification. A few days later, Arsenal will face Real Betis in Dublin, Ireland.
The Gunners then return to London for two home games at the Emirates Stadium, hosting Borussia Dortmund and later Como, who will also be traveling to Liverpool shortly after.
Return of World Cup Players to Arsenal
Several Arsenal players who took part in the World Cup will gradually rejoin the squad during preseason, though some might miss certain matches to recover properly. Injuries sustained or worsened during the tournament affect availability.
Defender William Saliba is expected to be sidelined for a while due to a back injury he aggravated while playing for France. He attempted to play through the pain but had to leave early in the semifinal against Spain.
Declan Rice played with a nerve issue in his hamstring, causing ongoing discomfort that may keep him out temporarily as he tries to heal.
Bukayo Saka appeared less than fully fit during England’s World Cup run and might require extra rest despite denying any injury.
All Arsenal players at the World Cup reached at least the Round of 32, so each is granted a minimum 21-day rest period post-elimination. Early exit players like Kai Havertz, Viktor Gyokeres, and Piero Hincapie could return before July ends. Those like Gabriel and Gabriel Martinelli, who reached the Round of 16, might come back in early August.
Martin Odegaard helped Norway reach the quarterfinals and could rejoin Arsenal by mid-August, though he might need time to regain full fitness. Meanwhile, Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke, semifinalists with England, may not be available until late August.
Players from Spain’s World Cup-winning squad—David Raya, Martin Zubimendi, and Mikel Merino—will likely have extended breaks, possibly returning only in late August or early September. Raya might come back sooner, having been Spain’s backup goalkeeper.
Arsenal's First Matches of the 2026/27 Premier League Season
The season kicks off with the FA Community Shield on Sunday, August 16. Arsenal, as reigning Premier League champions, face Manchester City, who won the FA Cup last season.
The Premier League campaign begins on Friday, August 21 with Arsenal hosting newly promoted Coventry City. Their first away game comes ten days later against Aston Villa. The third match features a London derby with Chelsea at home on September 6.
First Five Premier League Fixtures for Arsenal 2026/27
- Date: Fri, Aug. 21Opponent: Coventry CityVenue: Home
- Date: Mon, Aug. 31Opponent: Aston VillaVenue: Away
- Date: Sun, Sep. 6Opponent: ChelseaVenue: Home
- Date: Sat, Sep. 12Opponent: SunderlandVenue: Away
- Date: Sat, Sep. 19Opponent: BrightonVenue: Away
