Beitar Jerusalem begin their defence of the Israeli title with a two-point deduction, while many of their rivals will be under ambitious new coaches.
After becoming the first Ligue 1 club to part company with their coach this season, Nantes face a tough test at home against confident Le Mans.
The traditional "big three" of Dutch football all start the season with new coaches, as Ajax and Feyenoord prepare to challenge PSV's dominance.
The European Super Cup has particular importance for Sir Alex Ferguson following Manchester United's indifferent start to the season.
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger was delighted with Cesc Fabregas's return from injury in the UEFA Champions League qualifier against FC Twente.