Arsenal go from the 'hunter' to the 'hunted' as new Premier League season takes flight

Champions Arsenal commenced the Premier League season on Friday, buoyed by recent signings and ready to face their title rivals. Just 34 days post the World Cup, the league returned, and Arsenal kicked off with a match against newly promoted Coventry at the Emirates Stadium. The Gunners were honored with the opening game of the season.

Mohamed Salah and Pep Guardiola departed Liverpool and Manchester City, respectively, adding to the league's star-studded lineup. Despite the absence of these icons, the Premier League remains filled with world-class talent and emerging stars.

Arteta, Arsenal's boss, welcomed the pressure of being hunted by his title rivals, stating that Arsenal would prove their worth and ambition to be better than last season. He expressed his desire to be first and in control of their future.

Arteta believes that surviving the test of resolve after their near-misses last season will help Arsenal in their pursuit of back-to-back titles. The North London club aims to reign supreme again, especially considering the challenges posed by their title challengers.

City, the runners-up last season, will start their season without Guardiola at home to Bournemouth on Sunday. Guardiola bid farewell to the Etihad Stadium after winning 20 trophies in a decade. Former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca will take charge, hoping to emulate Guardiola's success.

Liverpool's new manager, Andoni Iraola, will lead his team in a new era without Salah, who moved to Turkish club Trabzonspor. Iraola replaced Arne Slot, sacked following Liverpool's fifth-place finish last season.

Chelsea's new manager Xabi Alonso begins his reign with a West London derby against Fulham on Monday. The club, underachieving but expensively-assembled, aims to prove they can compete this season.

Manchester United, starting on Saturday at promoted Hull, have bolstered their squad with new signings. Tottenham, who narrowly avoided relegation last season, travel to Brentford on Saturday with two high-profile signings.