The 2023-24 Premier League season is set to kick off with a bang, as defending champions Manchester City begin their fifth consecutive title defence with a trip to Stamford Bridge to face Chelsea on August 18th. This highly anticipated match will also mark the debut of Chelsea’s newly appointed manager, Enzo Maresca, who will face a familiar side having previously served as an assistant to Pep Guardiola during City’s treble-winning season and also coached City’s youth team.
The opening weekend promises a plethora of intriguing matchups. Last season’s league runners-up, Arsenal, will host Wolverhampton Wanderers in their first match on August 17th. Meanwhile, Championship winners Leicester City will welcome Tottenham Hotspur, while Newcastle United will entertain play-off victors Southampton.
Adding to the excitement, Ipswich Town is set to make a triumphant return to the Premier League after a 22-year absence, following back-to-back promotions. Their first match will see them host Liverpool in an early kick-off on August 17th.
The Premier League will commence in mid-August, marking a shift from the traditional schedule. The mid-season break has been removed from the calendar, allowing for a longer close-season break. This change aims to provide players with more rest and recovery time, ultimately contributing to a more competitive and enjoyable season.
