Kroenkes open 2026/27 with squad updates and farewell list

Arsenal co-chairs Stan and Josh Kroenke have published a pre-season message ahead of the club's opening 2026/27 Premier League fixture against Coventry, confirming a string of departures and new signings as the champions look to defend their title.

The letter confirms that Leo Trossard, Christian Norgaard, Jakub Kiwior, Karl Hein, Rosa Kafaji, Jenna Nighswonger and Laila Harbert have all left the club. The Kroenkes said the club wishes all seven "more success as they take the next step in their careers."

On the inbound side, Bruno Guimaraes, Christos Tzolis and Illan Meslier have joined the men's squad, while Piero Hincapie's loan move was made permanent at the start of the summer. The women's team has been reinforced by Georgia Stanway, Ona Batlle, Selina Cerci, Geraldine Reuteler, Lisa Baum, Isabella Damm and Misa Rodriguez.

Arsenal also announced the appointment of Pascal De Maesschalck as the club's new Academy Director, describing the move as reflecting "commitment to building one of the world's best academies."

The message referenced Arsenal's 2025/26 Premier League title triumph, which ended a 22-year wait, and the club's FIFA Women's World Championship. Mikel Merino, Martin Zubimendi and David Raya were singled out for helping Spain win the World Cup during the summer.

Arsenal extended their shirt sponsorship with Emirates ahead of the new campaign. The club also recorded a win over Manchester City in the FA Community Shield in Cardiff at the weekend before tonight's league opener against Coventry, who return to the Premier League after a 25-year absence.