The Gunners finished an impressive second in the top-flight last season. They were brilliant in the second half of the campaign and were just two points behind Manchester City for the top spot.
The club will be aiming to go one better this term. Ahead of the curtain-raiser, they have received a big boost with Jurrien Timber back in training after a minor foot problem.
The Dutchman missed the last few friendlies due to the same concern, but he has returned in training for the season opener. In our view, he could be eased into action by Arsenal.
Timber is coming off a long-term knee injury. He had a full pre-season in training, but the club will be wary of his workload in the initial weeks to avoid any possible injury recurrence.
Arsenal will be aiming for a bright start at the Emirates Stadium.