Luiz Felipe Scolari will start life as Chelsea's new manager at home to FA Cup winners Portsmouth after the 2008-09 fixture list was released on Monday.
Manchester United, who pipped Chelsea to the title on the final day last season, begin their title defence at home to Newcastle United.
Third-placed Arsenal are at home to newly promoted West Bromwich Albion on the opening day while Liverpool travel to Sunderland.
Scolari, who was named as Chelsea's new manager while still involved with Portugal at Euro 2008, will get his chance to test himself against United manager Alex Ferguson when last season's Champions League finalists meet at Stamford Bridge on September 20.
Hull City, who will be playing in the top flight for the first time, face Fulham at home while Stoke City, back among the elite for the first time since 1985, travel to Bolton Wanderers.
The season kicks off on August 16.