At 22:00 on August 17th, Arsenal will host Wolves in the first round of the new Premier League season. Arsenal are the stronger team, aiming to win their opening game for the third consecutive season, while Wolves are looking to avoid a seventh consecutive defeat against the Gunners.
Arsenal finished second last season, just two points behind the champions, with 28 wins in 38 games. Wolves finished 14th, with 13 wins in 38 games.
Arsenal’s biggest acquisition this summer was Italian defender Calafiori, who strengthens their defense. Smith-Rowe, who wore the number 10 shirt last season, has left the club due to injury, but this transfer has little impact on Arsenal’s overall strength.
In contrast, Wolves have undergone significant changes this summer. The departures of Pedro Neto and Kilman brought in over €100 million in transfer fees, but only a small portion was invested in new players. Wolves signed Rodrigo Gomes from Braga for €15 million, borrowed striker Larsen from Celta Vigo, and bought Brazilian defender Lima for €10 million.
Including the Emirates Cup, Arsenal played five competitive friendlies in their preparation period, achieving a record of 3 wins, 1 draw and 1 loss in regular time. This includes wins against Manchester United, Bayer Leverkusen, and Lyon. Their only defeat came against Liverpool.
Wolves played four friendly matches during their preparation period, recording two wins and two losses. They defeated West Ham and RB Leipzig, but lost to Crystal Palace and Rayo Vallecano.
In their last 10 encounters, Arsenal have recorded 7 wins, 1 draw and only 2 losses against Wolves. Arsenal have won both matches against Wolves for the last three consecutive seasons. Their last defeat against Wolves dates back to the 2020-21 season. In the past 20 years, Arsenal have only lost to Wolves once at home.
For the past two seasons, Arsenal have won their opening games. The last time they failed to win their opener was in the 2021-22 season, when they lost to Brentford. Wolves, on the other hand, did not win their opening game last season, losing 0-1 away to Manchester United.
Given the clear strength advantage, Arsenal are hoping for a third consecutive season opener win. Wolves, however, are looking to end their six-game losing streak against Arsenal, aiming for at least a draw.
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