Mikel Arteta’s side brushed aside promoted Coventry in emphatic fashion at the Emirates Stadium, underlining their determination to retain the title. Kai Havertz struck early in the first half and Bukayo Saka doubled the lead before Martin Odegaard netted after the interval to complete Arsenal’s masterclass. The Gunners have not successfully defended the English title since the 1930s, but Arteta insisted this week his players are hungry for more silverware.
Arsenal made the perfect start to their Premier League title defence with a stylish 3-0 win against Coventry in the opening game of the season on Friday.
Greek winger Christos Tzolis dazzled on his first league start for Arsenal after his close-season move from Club Brugge. Tzolis, who provided two assists in the Community Shield, nearly bagged his first Arsenal goal in the opening minutes, firing just over from Odegaard’s pass. The only downside for Arsenal was the realisation they have to wait 10 days for their next game at Aston Villa. The England defender completed his £51 million ($69 million) move from Villa earlier on Friday and could make his debut against his old club on August 31. Having spent a season in the fourth tier, plunged into administration and twice been forced to ground-share away from Coventry in the 25 years since they were last in the Premier League, the return of Frank Lampard’s side was a feelgood moment.
