League: EPL Sport: Soccer Country: England Category: Scores & Results

Fulham and Chelsea set for Premier League opener at Craven Cottage

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 23, 2026, 12:04 PM

Last updated Aug 23, 2026

Fulham and Chelsea set for Premier League opener at Craven Cottage

Summary

Fulham and Chelsea are preparing to face off in the opening match of the 2026-27 Premier League season on August 23 at Craven Cottage. Both teams have undergone significant coaching changes, with Fulham appointing former Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa and Chelsea hiring Xabi Alonso. Arbeloa aims to reshape Fulham's squad, which struggled in recent openers, while Chelsea is focused on stabilizing after a turbulent previous season. They have adopted a new transfer strategy, bringing in more experienced players ahead of the match. The game promises to be a test for both sides as they start their campaigns.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Fulham's new coach is Alvaro Arbeloa, replacing Marco Silva.
•Chelsea has appointed Xabi Alonso after a difficult previous season.
•Both teams have made key player signings this summer.
•The match is scheduled for August 23 at Craven Cottage.
•Fulham has won only one of their last six Premier League openers.

Latest Updates

12:04 PMYahoo Sports — Fulham v Chelsea: Key stats and talking points

What they're saying

"
Week one of the 2026-27 Premier League season signals the start of a new era for London rivals Fulham and Chelsea. Marco Silva moved on at the end of last season following the expiration of his contract, and Fulham made the bold choice to appoint former Real Madrid boss Alvaro Arbeloa as his replacement. As for Chelsea, after a tumultuous 2025-26 season in which they had three different head coaches, they have opted for Xabi Alonso – another former Real Madrid boss – to steady the ship and take the team forward.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Arsenal Chelsea Liverpool Manchester United Real Madrid Atletico Madrid EPL Soccer