Manchester City, owned by Abu Dhabi, commences their fifth consecutive title defense with a visit to Stamford Bridge to play Chelsea on August 18, as announced by the Premier League on Tuesday. Chelsea's recently appointed manager, Enzo Maresca, will encounter a well-known team, having previously served as an assistant to Pep Guardiola during their treble-winning campaign and also leading City's youth squad. Manchester United, the FA Cup champions, welcome Fulham for the season opener on August 16, while last season's league runners-up, Arsenal, host Wolverhampton Wanderers on August 17. Other opening matches include Championship winners Leicester City hosting Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United hosting play-off winners Southampton. Ipswich Town, back in the Premier League after 22 years due to consecutive promotions, kick off early against Liverpool on August 17. The Premier League will start in mid-August, following the removal of the mid-season break to extend the close-season rest.