Arsenal’s 5 most memorable opening day Premier League games – ranked!

1. Everton 1-6 Arsenal (2009)

Although Goodison Park has not been a happy hunting ground for Arsenal in recent years, the venue has played host to several enthralling encounters and we return to the northwest to remember an astonishing opening day win in 2009.

Similar to the aforementioned 2004 clash, the Gunners’ cause was aided by some terrible Everton defending and they quickly raced to an unassailable lead. The haul started with a sensational 25-yard strike by Denilson after 26 minutes, while two headers from William Gallas and debutant Thomas Vermaelen extended the advantage to 3-0 at half-time.

Any words of encouragement or advice in the home dressing room failed to stem the red and white tide as Cesc Fabregas added a fourth only three minutes after the break, and the captain later completed his brace by rounding off a swift counter-attack. The scoring concluded with a simple Eduardo tap-in in the closing stages while Louis Saha grabbed a Toffees’ consolation in stoppage time.

In the end, the campaign ended in disappointment as the Gunners endured another trophyless year. However, it was a dream start and perhaps the most memorable opening day in the club’s Premier League history.

More of the same on Friday, please.