Louis van Gaal’s first competitive match as Manchester United manager will be against Swansea.

The Premier League fixtures, released yesterday, gave United home advantage on the opening day of the season – scheduled for August 16.

Dutchman Van Gaal, given the challenge of improving the fortunes of a team who finished seventh last season, then takes United to Sunderland and Burnley.

Meanwhile, champions Manchester City will begin the defence of their title at Newcastle.

Manuel Pellegrini’s men, who won the league by two points from Liverpool, travel to St James’ Park before facing Brendan Rodgers’ men at home the following weekend.

The first Manchester derby of the season is scheduled for November 1 at the Etihad Stadium, with the reverse slated for April 11.

Liverpool start with a home game against Southampton – Ronald Koeman’s first game in charge.

And Jose Mourinho’s Chelsea, who finished third last seaseon, travel to face Sean Dyche’s newly-promoted Burnley.

Championship-winning Leicester face a challenging start.

A home match against Everton is followed by games against Chelsea and Arsenal.

The Gunners start at home to Crystal Palace, while north London rivals Tottenham – managed now by Mauricio Pochettino – face West Ham at Upton Park.

The third match in London on the opening weekend of the season sees QPR take on beaten FA Cup finalists Hull.

Alan Irvine’s first Premier League match as West Brom boss is at home against Sunderland.

The other match pairs Stoke and Aston Villa at Britannia Stadium.