Arsenal kicked off their Premier League title defence with a convincing victory over Coventry, who were making their return to the top flight after 25 years. Kai Havertz opened the scoring for the champions in the 15th minute, followed by goals from Bukayo Saka and captain Martin Ødegaard.
The win marks Arsenal's 46th consecutive home match without a loss against a promoted side. Manager Mikel Arteta had the flexibility to introduce World Cup winners Mikel Merino and Martín Zubimendi in the second half, replacing Martin Ødegaard and Declan Rice.
Before the match, Arsenal paraded new signing Ezri Konsa, an England defender who joined from Aston Villa for an initial £51m. However, they were without midfielder Bruno Guimarães, who sustained an injury in the Community Shield victory over Manchester City.
Coventry's lineup included five new signings, among them Ghana midfielder Caleb Yirenkyi. Manager Frank Lampard acknowledged that their survival prospects would not hinge on this result, with their upcoming home game against Hull expected to offer a clearer indication of their form.