Arsenal begin their Premier League title defence in emphatic fashion as they beat promoted Coventry City 3-0 at the Emirates Stadium.
Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard score as Mikel Arteta’s side dominate their opening league game of the season.
Havertz puts Arsenal ahead after 15 minutes when he meets Riccardo Calafiori’s cross with a low finish from inside the penalty area.
Saka doubles the lead eight minutes later, converting from close range after Coventry goalkeeper Carl Rushworth pushes out Christos Tzolis’ cross.
Arsenal continue to control the match after the break and Odegaard makes it 3-0 in the 49th minute.
The Norwegian midfielder sees his effort take a deflection before slipping past Rushworth, effectively ending Coventry’s hopes of a comeback.
The victory gives Arsenal an ideal start as they attempt to defend the Premier League title for the first time since the 1930s.
Arteta had stressed before the season that his players remain hungry for more silverware following last season’s long-awaited title triumph.
The result also highlights Arsenal’s growing strength after they strengthened their squad during the summer transfer window.
New signing Ezri Konsa receives a warm reception from supporters before kick-off after completing his £51m move from Aston Villa.
The England defender could make his Arsenal debut when the champions travel to face his former club on 31 August.
Greek winger Tzolis also impresses on his first league start for Arsenal following his move from Club Brugge, having already provided two assists in the Community Shield.
Arsenal now face a 10-day wait before their next Premier League fixture against Aston Villa.
For Coventry, the defeat marks a difficult return to the top flight after a 25-year absence.
Frank Lampard’s side earned promotion after winning the Championship last season but struggle to cope with Arsenal’s pressing, movement and attacking quality.
The defeat leaves Coventry with plenty to improve on as they begin their long-awaited Premier League campaign.
