The Premier League is set to kick off its 2026-27 season, with experts largely predicting Arsenal to defend their title. A panel of Daily Mail Sport journalists has offered their forecasts for the upcoming campaign, including predictions for the title race, teams likely to be relegated, potential surprise packages, and key player awards.
Title Contenders
Arsenal are the favored team to win the league again, with several experts citing their squad depth, stability, and recent championship experience as key advantages. "They have the best squad, the least turbulence and have dismantled the mental barriers that previously dominated these conversations," noted Riath Al-Samarrai. Others believe the pressure of winning their first title under Mikel Arteta has been lifted, making them stronger.
Chelsea are also expected to be strong contenders, with manager Xabi Alonso and strategic summer signings highlighted as reasons for optimism. "The manager is top class and the old heads they have brought in could be enough for a stunning title assault," said Mike Keegan. Chelsea's absence from European competition is also seen as a potential advantage, allowing them to focus solely on domestic matters.
Liverpool and Manchester City are also predicted to be in the mix. Liverpool's new signings and improved squad are expected to make them a threat, while City, despite a period of transition under new manager Enzo Maresca, possess a strong squad and a winning mentality. However, some experts believe City might struggle to maintain their previous dominance following the departure of Pep Guardiola.
Relegation Battle
Fulham, Ipswich Town, and Hull City are the teams most frequently predicted to be relegated. Concerns for Fulham include an inexperienced new manager and the departure of key players. Ipswich and Hull are viewed as potentially lacking the depth and quality to survive in the top flight.
Newcastle are also mentioned as potential strugglers, with experts pointing to the departure of manager Eddie Howe and key players like Bruno Guimaraes and Anthony Gordon. The Saudi owners' apparent disconnect and a managerial novice at the helm have raised concerns.
Overachievers and Underachievers
Tottenham are tipped by some to be the biggest overachievers, with strong recruitment and the appointment of Roberto de Zerbi seen as positive signs. "They have bought well in the summer and in Roberto de Zerbi, they have one of the best managers of this generation," wrote Oliver Holt.
Conversely, Manchester United and Aston Villa are highlighted as potential underachievers. Manchester United's squad depth is questioned, while Aston Villa face challenges with significant player departures and the demands of European football. "Aston Villa. Challenging season ahead for Unai Emery. Lost Morgan Rogers, Youri Tielemans and Lucas Digne. Ezri Konsa leaving. Emi Martinez and Ollie Watkins unsettled," commented Matt Barlow.
Individual Accolades
For Player of the Season, Arsenal's Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice are frequently mentioned, alongside Chelsea's Cole Palmer, who is expected to benefit from a summer of rest. Erling Haaland is also a strong pick due to his prolific goal-scoring record.
The signing of the summer so far is a subject of debate, with Bruno Guimaraes to Arsenal and Youri Tielemans to Manchester United receiving particular attention. However, some also favor less high-profile moves.
Enzo Maresca, the new manager at Manchester City, is widely considered to have the most to prove. Stepping into the shoes of Pep Guardiola at a club with immense expectations presents a significant challenge.