Arsenal FC began the new Premier League season with 0-0 draw at Newcastle United FC while Liverpool FC were held by Sunderland AFC and Bolton Wanderers FC made it a miserable bow for promoted Queens Park Rangers FC.

In UEFA Champions League play-off action on Tuesday against Udinese Calcio, Arsenal were seldom able to truly trouble Newcastle and ended with ten men when debutant Gervinho was dismissed. Meanwhile Liverpool began well when Luis Suárez − having missed an early penalty − struck 12 minutes but shortly before the hour mark new Sunderland signing Sebastian Larsson volleyed an equaliser.

QPR's first top-flight game in 15 years ended in a 4-0 home defeat by Bolton, England defender Gary Cahill sparking the victory with a goal in first-half added time. The other promoted side in action, Norwich City FC, drew 1-1 at Wigan Athletic FC while it was goalless between UEFA Europa League contenders Fulham FC and Aston Villa FC. Wolverhampton Wanderers FC came from behind to win 2-1 at Blackburn Rovers FC.

On Sunday, Manchester United FC go to West Bromwich Albion FC and Chelsea FC visit Stoke City FC, while Monday's fixture matches Manchester City FC with newcomers Swansea City FC.