Arsenal
Now that we’ve finally shaken off the pressure of winning the title, and with a lot of the other top teams going through changes, there’s plenty of reason to be hopeful. Obviously, the goal is for Arteta to keep the same drive and intensity to defend the title properly. The big questions are whether we can stay as solid at the back without Saliba, who’s out long-term, and whether bringing in Guimarães will give us the midfield spark we need to break down teams that sit deep and defend.
Key players/weak links
Based on our pre-season games, we really need our remaining World Cup players back – Rice, Zubimendi, and Saka should give us a fresh sense of purpose, both to shore up any defensive weaknesses and to boost our scoring threat. We’re all hoping for a big season from a stronger Max Dowman, and we’re keen to see if Tzolis is an upgrade on Trossard.
We still need to sign …
Our friendly matches have shown we need more attacking options, like Atlético’s Julián Álvarez, and cover for Saliba – Quansah and Konsa have been linked. But any more signings probably depend on selling some players who haven’t lived up to expectations, like Vieira and Nelson.
Our cult hero is …
Benny Blanco’s antics off the ball make him a firm fan favourite, but it’s Declan Rice’s attitude that will really set the tone for whether we can achieve more success.
If we could sign two players from our past …
Who wouldn’t want to add the skill of Thierry Henry and Dennis Bergkamp to any team?
We will finish 1st. Top four: 1. Arsenal; 2. Chelsea; 3. Manchester City; 4. Liverpool. Bottom three: 18. Coventry; 19. Ipswich; 20. Hull. First manager sacked: Sergej Jakirovic.
Bernard Azulay, onlinegooner.com; @GoonerN5
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Max Dowman: breakthrough season? Photograph: Matt Impey/Shutterstock
Aston Villa
It would be silly not to be optimistic when, under Emery, we’ve created great memories every year, no matter who left or joined in the summer. Finishing in the top six and having a decent cup run would count as a good season, and it might be that we play our best football later on as we bring in some exciting new talent. I hear Manzambi is the best thing to come out of Switzerland since the cuckoo clock, and any 22-year-old with 187 senior appearances (Garnacho) must be decent. Interestingly, the financial rules holding us back should mean we can’t complain too much if we don’t start quickly, and having a ground with only three sides might even help make Villa Park a tough place to visit. All in all, I’m excited for the new season.
Key players/weak links
The senior players all need to keep buying into Emery’s approach, but why wouldn’t they? Konsa is still a rock, and all the praise for McGinn is well earned. If Kamara plays 40 senior games instead of his usual 25, we’ll finish two places higher. Normally, naming a young player to watch here guarantees they’ll get loaned out to Lincoln, but Brian Madjo has looked impressive up front in pre-season.
We still need to sign …
Marcus Rashford.
Our cult hero is …
McGinn has probably already done enough to have a hospitality suite named after him. Another two years and it could be a whole stand. He’ll know Emery doesn’t do sentiment, so I expect another year where SJM pushes for player of the season while being a key leader in the dressing room.
If we could sign two players from our past …
Dwight Yorke, from 1995-96 when he became a pure striker. And Gareth Barry: the complete midfielder.
We will finish 6th. Top four: 1. Arsenal; 2. Manchester City; 3. Manchester United; 4. Chelsea. Bottom three: 18. Fulham; 19. Ipswich; 20. Hull. First manager sacked: Roberto De Zerbi.
Jonathan Pritchard
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John McGinn: cult hero. Photograph: James Marsh/Shutterstock
Bournemouth
We’reI’m really looking forward to this: our first ever season in a European club competition. It’s going to be huge. And with what is arguably our strongest squad ever, we expect to be competitive in the Europa League too. We’re excited to see Marco Rose in charge and to continue the fast, attacking, fearless style of football that earned us our highest ever finish last season. With the extra games on our schedule, a mid-table Premier League finish would be very respectable, but winning a trophy feels surprisingly achievable. Why not a European one?
Key players/weak links: António Silva has big shoes to fill at centre-half, following in Senesi’s footsteps, but we expect big things from him. We’re also looking forward to the impact of new striker Álvaro Rodríguez and attacking right-back Juanlu. Keep an eye out for a fully fit Ben Gannon-Doak – a breakthrough season is on the horizon for him.
We still need to sign … Business is mostly done. We’re in a good place, with maybe one or two players going out on loan before the window closes.
Our cult hero is … Long-serving veteran defender Adam Smith continues to perform at the highest level, an incredible 16 years after his debut for the club. He embodies the journey we’ve been on, and we love him for it.
If we could sign two players from our past … It would be hard to turn down a peak Nathan Aké or Callum Wilson, but with the squad we have now, I’m not sure they’d make the starting 11. Perhaps, with Junior Kroupi out for a few months, there might be room for a natural finisher like Jermain Defoe. Even better, a prime Ted MacDougall would score goals for fun every week in this team.
We will finish 12th. Top four: 1. Manchester City; 2. Arsenal; 3. Liverpool; 4. Manchester United. Bottom three: 18. Hull; 19. Ipswich; 20. Leeds. First manager sacked: Xabi Alonso.
Jeff Hayward, Back of the Net, the AFC Bournemouth Fan’s Podcast
View image in fullscreen: António Silva: big things expected. Photograph: Robin Jones/AFC Bournemouth/Getty Images
Brentford
I’m very optimistic. Twelve months ago, Yoane Wissa was refusing to train to force a move, and the footballing world was convinced that our free-kick coach turned manager would get us relegated. Fast forward a year, and things feel very different. We’ve had a proper pre-season, there’s a clear tactical approach, and importantly, we’ve signed players who can actually carry it out. The target? Keep improving. If we can secure a European spot this season, that would be another sign that we’re progressing year on year. For a club like Brentford, that’s a pretty exciting prospect.
Key players/weak links: There’s a lot of excitement around new signing Mamadou Sangaré – so much so that he already has his own song. Callum Wilson is a shrewd signing too, and at this stage of his career, he seems happy to sit on the bench and chip in with goals when called upon. Our explosive front three of Ouattara, Thiago, and Schade have now had time to gel and should cause plenty of problems. As for youngsters, 11 players aged 21 or under are competing for a place in the final 25-man squad. 19-year-old striker – and rapper – Kaye Furo is highly rated, as is 20-year-old centre-back Jannik Schuster. It’s a good sign that our youngsters are no longer just making up the numbers.
We still need to sign … If there’s one position we could strengthen, left-back would be a good option. El Hadji Malick Diouf from West Ham has been rumoured.
Our cult hero is … Michael Kayode. He cemented his status by singing his own terrace chant on camera: “He eats spaghetti, he drinks Moretti, he hates Queens Park Rangers.”
If we could sign two players from our past … We’re probably a bit too “nice.” Whenever we need a short injection of old-school fire, fight, and chaos, Terry Evans from our 1992 Division One-winning side and Terry Hurlock from that incredible 80s “KamaRa, Bowles, and Hurlock in midfield would be great to have available. We’ll finish 6th. Top four: 1. Manchester City; 2. Arsenal; 3. Manchester United; 4. Bournemouth. Bottom three: 18. Fulham; 19. Ipswich; 20. Hull. I got the first manager sacked right last season, predicting two Forest sackings in a row. Surely Glasner isn’t next? Okay, fine, I’ll go with him.
Billy Grant, Beesotted podcast and blog; @Beesotted; @BillyTheBee99
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Michael Kayode: hates Queens Park Rangers. Photograph: Christian Sinibaldi/The Guardian
Brighton
Having seen West Ham, Chelsea, and even Crystal Palace go all the way in the Conference League, our main goal is to do well in that and win our first cup final since the 1910 Charity Shield. Am I optimistic about it happening? Not really. The competition looks tougher this year. Freiburg, Atalanta, and Monaco all have real European experience. Even the playoff round against Tromsø is a tricky one. I’m old enough to remember some pretty awful trips to Carlisle when Brighton could never win north of Lake Windermere, let alone inside the Arctic Circle.
Key players/weak links
The key player will be whoever Fabian Hürzeler uses to fill the gap left by selling Danny Welbeck: Georginio Rutter, Charalampos Kostoulas, or Stefanos Tzimas. Not only did Welbeck score 13 goals last season, but most were vital equalisers or important winners worth 13 points. Letting him join Chelsea is a huge risk. If none of those younger alternatives the club wants to play more this season step up and replace Welbeck, that’s the weak link. And there are big question marks over all three.
We still need to sign …
Danny Welbeck from Chelsea would be a good signing for his goal record and the experience he’d bring to a young squad.
Our cult hero is …
Rutter. Nothing says cult hero quite like having one Instagram account about your football career and another about the racehorses you own, with the racing one being more interesting.
If we could sign two players from our past …
I’ll spare you another Welbeck answer and say Glenn Murray and Bobby Zamora instead. Hopefully, I’ll be able to revisit this on 3 June 2027 after we’ve just won the Conference League and Kostoulas has scored 46 goals in all competitions. Danny who?
We will finish 13th. Top four: 1. Arsenal; 2. Manchester United; 3. Manchester City; 4. Chelsea. Bottom three: 18. Sunderland; 19. Ipswich; 20. Hull. First manager sacked: Oliver Glasner.
Scott McCarthy, WeAreBrighton.com
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Georginio Rutter: likes racehorses. Photograph: Matthew Childs/Action Images/Reuters
Chelsea
A new top manager, some decent new signings, and a feelgood factor within the squad – it’s hard not to be optimistic. We’ve finally brought in some experienced players who should complement our younger ones and take them to the next level. With no Champions League football, the target has to be top four and a good run in the domestic cups.
Key players/weak links
We’ve strengthened in most areas, so it’s key that the new signings make a quick impact. Palmer and Colwill should hopefully be fully recovered too and hit the ground running. I’m really looking forward to seeing Morgan Rogers in a blue shirt, and Marco Palestra looks promising. I still worry about Sánchez in goal, though, and Penders might be a bit inexperienced for the Premier League. As for youngsters, I’d add Reggie Watson to the squad as a wildcard. He impressed in pre-season, giving off real John Terry vibes. How is he only 16?
We still need to sign …
If Enzo Fernández goes, he’ll need replacing; Alex Scott and Adam Wharton have both been heavily linked, and either would be a good choice, adding to the English spine of the team. The rest of the squad looks very balanced with strength in depth. At this stage of the window, the main focus will be on trimming the squad to a manageable level.
Our cult hero is …
In a team with few real characters, I’m hoping some of the new signings will shaStrengthen the squad a bit. I have a feeling Pep Chavarria could quickly become a fan favourite with some clever gamesmanship. Cole Palmer will keep entertaining both on and off the pitch with his great interviews.
If we could sign two players from our past… John Terry to organise the defence and Frank Lampard to score the goals. Both gave 100% every time they played and were fantastic motivators. Two absolute legends who would fit into any team in any era.
We will finish fourth. Top four: 1. Arsenal; 2. Manchester United; 3. Manchester City; 4. Chelsea. Bottom three: 18. Newcastle; 19. Ipswich; 20. Hull. First manager sacked: Sergej Jakirovic.
Paul Baker, in memory of Trizia Fiorellino
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Reggie Watson: real John Terry vibes. Photograph: Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC/Getty Images
Coventry
There’s no downside to choosing optimism, so yes, we’re optimistic. I don’t expect a top-half finish, but I do enjoy how the club is being run and believe in our ability to compete. Clearly, the target is to survive, but within that, if we can show what’s good about us and provide a challenge, that would be a very acceptable outcome.
Key players/weak links
The money we’ve spent is basically unbelievable, but my focus has been on those who were so crucial to our promotion. Matt Grimes connects everyone in the team, so we’re relying on him to do that again, otherwise we’ll have to develop a completely new way to play. Signing keeper Carl Rushworth also gives us confidence at the back that we hope will turn into points. There are questions about our strikers (which feels crazy for a team that scored 99 goals last season). It’s not complicated – we simply don’t know if Wright and Simms have what it takes to score at the highest level. Aside from signing Aurele Amenda, we haven’t touched our defence either. It’s a bold strategy. Liam Kitching and Jay Dasilva have improved significantly, but it’s hard to ignore the idea that we’re relying on players like them to find another level. However, new signing Caleb Yirenkyi looks very special.
We still need to sign…
We saw how vital Brian Brobbey was for Sunderland last season. A dynamic, high-profile striker would go a long way towards calming the nerves about our forward line. Is Taiwo Awoniyi able to be that guy? Let’s hope so. The rumours about Fikayo Tomori are exciting. If we could bring him in, that would be amazing.
Our cult hero is…
While the returning Gus Hamer is clearly our cult hero, Milan van Ewijk is the joker of the team. You’ll find him front and centre of every celebration. But don’t let the silliness fool you; he’s a serious, serious player.
If we could sign two players from our past…
The original version of James Maddison was unlike anything I’ve ever seen. His game has adapted with age, which is a shame, but I’d love some of that early creativity. I’d also welcome back Viktor Gyokeres. He plays much better when he believes he’s the star man. Come home Vik and power your way to nine or more Premier League goals for Coventry.
We will finish 17th. Top four: 1. Manchester City, 2. Chelsea, 3. Arsenal, 4. Manchester United. Bottom three: 18. Ipswich, 19. Fulham, 20. Hull. First manager sacked: Daniel Farke.
Neil Allison @skybluesblog, Nii Lamptey Show Podcast
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Milan van Ewijk (right, sharing a joke with Carl Rushworth): don’t let the silliness fool you. Photograph: James Marsh/Shutterstock
Crystal Palace
What are we expecting? Right now, it’s really difficult to say. The only key player to have left (so far) is Maxence Lacroix, on whom we made a massive profit, but we still have to strengthen the squad so it can handle the demands of going deep in the Europa League without risking our Premier League campaign – a lesson learned from last season. Lots of incoming deals seem close, but not yet finalised.
Key players/weak links
Ismaila Sarr and J-P Mateta will once again beGiven the lack of goals elsewhere in the squad, this is crucial. Adam Wharton will prove just how wrong Tuchel was to leave him out of the World Cup, and Tyrick Mitchell will keep impressing on the left. Jaydee Canvot, still only 20, is set to become a top-class centre-back and should grow even more this season.
We still need to sign… There’s already been some good work in the transfer market – US teenager Zavier Gozo and right-back Anan Khalaili look like exciting prospects, and Evann Guessand is a welcome return from Villa. But we still need someone to replace Lacroix, plus more strength in midfield – our £35m bid for Monaco’s Lamine Camara was turned down. There’s plenty left to do. Meanwhile, swapping Dwight McNeil for Brennan Johnson has divided opinions: Johnson – all £35m of him – was only here for a few months.
Our cult hero is… A few candidates. Mateta, obviously, chant-leader Dean Henderson, and possibly our Brazilian attacker Matheus França. He’s not quite there yet, but he joined the club three years ago at 19 and has barely made an impact for various reasons. However, he’s had a strong pre-season, including dancing goal celebrations – some Brazilian flair would go down really well at Selhurst.
If we could sign two players from our past… Michael Olise without a doubt; he was clearly world-class at Palace and has kept improving spectacularly. And Matt Jansen, from the late 90s – a personal hero of mine; such incredible talent at such a young age, and he’d shine in the modern game.
We will finish 14th. Top four: 1. Arsenal; 2. Manchester City; 3. Chelsea; 4. Tottenham. Bottom three: 18. Newcastle; 19. Ipswich; 20. Hull. First manager sacked: Matthias Jaissle.
Chris Waters @Clapham_Grand
View image in fullscreen: Matheus França: strong in pre-season. Photograph: Daniel Weir/Sports Press Photo/Shutterstock
Everton
Despite the £327m the Friedkins have provided since the takeover, there are still doubts about how ambitious they really are. Recruitment is tough, and the process (whether Moyes or a committee makes the decisions) is uncertain. Realistically, aiming for eighth (and European qualification) is probably the ceiling. Does that make Blues fans feel optimistic? Unlikely. The 31-year wait for a trophy weighs heavily on our hearts and minds.
Key players/weak links: Midfield is looking stronger, but can Beto and Barry score 20 goals between them? Tyrique George (signed from Chelsea) is a key addition. The right side of the pitch is still a problem. A couple of youngsters to watch: Harrison Armstrong, 19, broke through last season, and even younger at 18, Braiden Graham, the Northern Ireland forward signed from Linfield.
We still need to sign… A right-back. Jake O’Brien, who’s been covering there, is a fantastic centre-back and would be perfect in the middle alongside Branthwaite. A proven goalscorer would be a bonus, as would a right-winger.
Our cult hero is… Jordan Pickford. His role in keeping Everton in the top flight and his excellence in goal for England are shamefully under-reported in the media. We’re lucky to have such a dedicated player who loves playing for his country, the club, and the fans.
If we could sign two players from our past… Alan Ball, the best outfield player to play for the club in my opinion, never stopped running, commanded midfield, was skilful, a great passer, and had a tremendous shot – he had it all and would walk into any Premier League side of any generation. What would he be worth today? And a 17-year-old Wayne Rooney.
We will finish: I said eighth last season, and the optimist says eighth again. But realistically, 10th. Top four: 1. Arsenal; 2. Liverpool; 3. Manchester United; 4. Aston Villa. Bottom three: 18. Tottenham; 19. Coventry; 20. Hull. First manager sacked: Oliver Glasner, not because he deserves it, but because of the owner.
Paul Quinn @theesk, theesk.org
View image in fullscreen: Tyrique George (centre): key signing. Photograph: Richard Lee/Shutterstock
Fulham
I’m always optimistic at this stage oIt’s the summer again, but there’s a bit of nervousness mixed in this time. How can you make a fair guess about our chances when so much has changed? We’re saying goodbye (and thanks) to Marco Silva and welcoming Álvaro Arbeloa, who brings a new coaching team, a fresh approach, and a drive to start a new chapter. It looks like we’re in for a new, exciting strategy that will keep us on the edge of our seats—hopefully in a good way.
Key players/weak links: We expect striker Gonzalo García (22) and versatile midfielder César Palacios (21) to make an immediate impact. The Spanish pair have followed their former boss from Real Madrid, knowing that hard work is part of the deal. Another midfielder, Shea Charles (22), has also joined, and besides helping lower the squad’s average age, the three will be keen to shake off their “promising” label by performing well in the top flight. Arbeloa might also dip into the youth ranks, with 18-year-old winger Macaulay Zepa one to watch.
We still need to sign: If Arbeloa gets his way, there will be more additions, probably to strengthen the defense. And maybe a younger goalkeeper who’s comfortable with the ball at his feet to take over from Leno.
Our cult hero is: For humor, it’s the Naija Boys—Iwobi and Bassey—who will no doubt keep up their off-pitch antics and funny Instagram stories, though they’re one man down now that Chukwueze has gone back to Milan. Unless someone else steps up, captain Tom Cairney remains the main man, still capable of scoring match-winning wonder goals after parking his old bath chair at the side of the pitch.
If we could sign two players from our past: An obvious goal-scorer up front would be Louis Saha. And the super-strong Mousa Dembélé bossing central midfield would fit Arbeloa’s style perfectly.
We will finish 14th. Top four: 1. Arsenal; 2. Manchester City; 3. Manchester United; 4. Chelsea. Bottom three: 18. Coventry; 19. Ipswich; 20. Hull. First manager sacked: Matthias Jaissle.
David Lloyd @DMLTOOFIF
View image in fullscreen: Gonzalo García: should make an immediate impact. Photograph: Antonio Pozo/Shutterstock
Hull: I’m very optimistic. Sure, there’s a chance we’ll get relegated, but we certainly won’t be the pushovers people expect. We do well when we’re written off, as last season showed, and we have a practical manager who has us playing fast, transitional football that suits the Premier League. We could definitely upset a lot of teams and, just maybe, even stay up.
Key players/weak links: As the squad stands now, Oli McBurnie, Mohamed Belloumi, and Charlie Hughes will be the key figures. But with new signings coming in to add much-needed experience and skill, that could change. Hidemasa Morita has been a great free signing, so he’s one to watch. Full-back is still a problem area for us: there’s only Ryan Giles on the left, and there are questions over Lewie Coyle and Cody Drameh at this level on the right. Thanks to a late burst in the transfer window, we now have a healthy crop of young talent hoping to break through. 18-year-old Australian Lucas Herrington comes as a full international and had clubs like Barcelona sniffing around before joining us.
We still need to sign: We really need more depth at full-back and desperately need a forward or two to compete with McBurnie. We could also use more Premier League experience across the back line, plus another backup goalkeeper due to Jack Butland’s long injury.
Our cult hero is: Definitely McBurnie. He’s a handful for every defender and always winding people up. The kind of player you hate to face but love to have on your side.
If we could sign two players from our past: I’d take Jarrod Bowen on the wing and Andy Robertson at left-back. Funny enough, those were two transfers I thought might actually happen this summer, following…After West Ham got relegated and Robertson left Liverpool on a free, it just wasn’t meant to be. We’ll finish 17th. Top four: 1. Arsenal; 2. Man City; 3. Liverpool; 4. Man United. Bottom three: 18. Crystal Palace; 19. Ipswich; 20. Coventry. First manager to be sacked: Frank Lampard.
Ant Northgraves, To Hull & Back Podcast
[Image: Oli McBurnie, key figure. Photo: Andy Sumner/Focus Images Ltd/Shutterstock]
Ipswich
Having been in the Premier League two years ago, the fans know what to expect—our eyes are wide open. The momentum and hope we had two seasons ago were quickly stopped once the season started. This time, the summer transfer business looks better quality, more solid, a step up, giving us a decent chance of survival and a bit of optimism.
Key players/weak links: Sasa Lukic looks exactly like the kind of signing we need. He’s 30, has good Premier League experience, and brings no-nonsense grit and physicality. We’ll need more players like him and Issa Diop through the middle of the team. One youngster to watch: Sindre Walle Egeli just turned 20 and signed for a Championship record fee of £17.5m last August. He had an up-and-down season but has had a really good pre-season playing in the No 10 role.
We still need to sign: a senior striker to take the pressure off our new young Brazilian forward, Emersonn, who was Gary O’Neil’s first signing when he joined from Toulouse for £25m in July. We were strongly linked with Callum Wilson before he went to Brentford. I do wonder if we’ll get to the end of August and land Zian Flemming from Burnley.
Our cult hero is: among the current players, Marcelino Núñez is probably the closest. He has plenty of credit in the bank after his transfer last summer from a lower league club. That said, Florentino Luís’s early social media posts mean he has serious potential in this category. We’ve already had AI farmers and Suffolk Punches on Insta and TikTok…
If we could sign two players from our past: Paul Mariner for his all-round presence up front. He’d be ideal as the central striker in the modern game. And Matt Holland as a leader and box-to-box midfield general.
We’ll finish 16th. Top four: 1. Arsenal; 2. Manchester City; 3. Manchester United; 4. Chelsea. Bottom three: 18. Fulham; 19. Coventry; 20. Hull. First manager to be sacked: Álvaro Arbeloa.
Craig Finbow @BlueMondayITFC; bluemondayitfc.co.uk
[Image: Emersonn, £25m signing. Photo: John Sibley/Action Images/Reuters]
Leeds
At the end of last season, Daniel Farke challenged the owner, 49ers Enterprises, to move beyond just surviving in the Premier League. So this summer Leeds have broken our transfer record for goalkeeper James “next Nigel Martyn” Trafford, paid £34m for defender Tarik Muharemovic, and gone back for Harry Wilson, one of last season’s top creators in the Premier League. Over to you, Daniel. His challenge now is turning ambition into results quickly enough to prove he’s the manager to take Leeds beyond just surviving. A long-awaited new West Stand is being built at Elland Road, and the mood is good—which can be dangerous for a self-proclaimed massive club in the bottom half of the Premier League.
Key players/weak links: The main strength, and weakness, is Dominic Calvert-Lewin. He’s our key goalscorer, but he doesn’t have much backup. Left-back is similar, but Jayden Lienou is a promising teenage understudy for Gabriel Gudmundsson.
We still need to sign: the priority is a striker to help Calvert-Lewin and Lukas Nmecha. There are rumours, though, about adding more flair to the forward line.
Our cult hero is: Anton Stach’s YouTube channel is, thankfully, a delightful contribution to happiness in our world. He’s been wandering the streets of Leeds incognito asking people what they have for breakfast, and filming himself buying EU plug adaptors in Boots. On Instagram, his p…Our partner’s gameday graphics have brought Sharknados to Elland Road. Good, wholesome stuff.
If we could sign two players from our past… The correct back-up for DCL would be Luciano Becchio. To add some suaveness to our bustling midfield, Gary McAllister.
We will finish 12th. Top four: 1. Arsenal; 2. Aston Villa; 3. Liverpool; 4. Manchester City. Bottom three: 18. Sunderland; 19. Hull; 20. Coventry. First manager sacked: Frank Lampard.
Daniel Chapman, leedsista.com, @leedsista.com
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Dominic Calvert-Lewin: key scorer. Photograph: Peter Fitzpatrick/Action Plus/Shutterstock
Liverpool
I’m always optimistic about a new season, but this one feels like a real new beginning for us and a bit of an unknown. We start without a few familiar faces, with a new manager and some new signings, but that’s balanced by Van Dijk and Alisson still being here, along with others who’ve been at the club a while now. I wouldn’t put much stock in the pre-season results or that comment from Iraola about us not being able to run after 60 minutes – he didn’t mean it – and we’ll see how it goes when things really kick off next week. We have top players, the boss brings a style that fits the club, and I believe we’ll do well. The goal is to be up there competing for a top spot by next May.
Key players/weak links
At the back, with all their experience, Van Dijk and Alisson will be crucial. There’s a big gap to fill up front, but Isak now has the chance to prove himself after a nightmare season last time around. Wirtz will also want to show he can adapt to the pace of the Premier League and make an impact. As for youngsters, Rio Ngumoha has already shown what he can do, and the more he plays, the better he’ll get. Trey Nyoni is getting praise for his midfield play, and if Giovanni Leoni keeps recovering well, he too has the potential to secure a spot.
We still need to sign…
Defenders. Even though we’ve brought in a couple, including Ifeanyi Ndukwe who won’t count yet, it still feels like we need a solid centre-back and right-back for both the short and long term. Konsa or Murillo at Forest? A central midfielder to help out Gravenberch, and an attacker who plays on the right – Ibrahim Mbaye has been mentioned, though PSG might not love us going after two of their players, because Barcola is already a done deal. Apparently.
Our cult hero is…
Not sure we have one right now; we need someone to step up.
If we could sign two players from our past…
Alan Hansen to partner Van Dijk, and Steven Gerrard to inspire and work his magic from midfield all over the pitch.
We will finish 1st. Top four: 1. Liverpool; 2. Arsenal; 3. Chelsea; 4. Manchester City. Bottom three: 18. Nottingham Forest; 19. Ipswich; 20. Hull. First manager sacked: Pierre Sage.
Steph Jones
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Rio Ngumoha: top young talent. Photograph: Lewis Storey/Danehouse/Getty Images
Manchester City
I’m excited; it’s a new dawn under Maresca. Naturally, every City fan loved Pep’s reign. We know we’ll never have it as good again, and I doubt we’ll ever see a more dominant managerial era in the Premier League. But after 10 years, there’s naturally something exciting about a fresh start. The target is simple: we need to win the league back. The last team other than City to retain the title was United in 2008-09. It’s our job to make it incredibly difficult for Arsenal.
Key players/weak links
To temper the optimism slightly, losing Rodri, if it happens, is obviously a massive blow. He’s the best No 6 in the world, without doubt, so by definition, he’s irreplaceable. That said, given his age (30), the club was always planning to sign his successor this summer. And in adding Anderson and Bouaddi, it feels like Viana has done excellent business. The key players will be Haaland, Semenyo, Gvardiol, Donnarumma, O’Reilly, Cherki, Foden (if he can recover his level), and Doku. They’re the most nailed-on starters (plus Anderson). Youngster tTo watch? Ryan McAidoo.
We still need to sign… We’re still short on options out wide. McAidoo looks really promising. But if Doku or Semenyo get injured, then right now (assuming Spurs don’t take anyone) we’d have to rely on Savinho. He frustrated most City fans last season… so much natural talent, but a maddening lack of end product. Hopefully we can upgrade on him if he leaves. Right-back is also a worry for me: we depend too much on Nunes (again).
Our cult hero is… Has to be Haaland, doesn’t it? The guy’s full of aura. The way he schooled Gabriel against Brazil at the World Cup… brilliant. More of that, please.
If we could sign two players from our past… Raheem Sterling was ridiculously good in his prime. Just relentless. He’d be perfect for Maresca’s system, with wingers isolated one-on-one. And Aymeric Laporte: hugely underrated, I think he’s still good enough to play for us!
We’ll finish 2nd. Top four: 1. Arsenal; 2. Manchester City; 3. Chelsea; 4. Tottenham. Bottom three: 18. Fulham; 19. Ipswich; 20. Hull. First manager sacked: Sergej Jakirovic.
Lloyd Scragg, 9320pod.com; @lloyd_scragg
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Antoine Semenyo: key player. Photograph: Kim Soo-Hyeon/Reuters
Manchester United
Carrick is getting the best out of a group who were spectacularly mismanaged for a couple of years. The difference he made in six months was ridiculous. After the longest goodbye in recent history, Casemiro has gone, replaced by midfielders who can actually run – but we could still be reliant on keeping injury-prone Mount fit. I hope it’s not a case of Glazernomics repeating itself, where we spend to qualify for the Champions League, then go shopping in the bargain bin once we’ve qualified. Give Carrick another couple of decent signings and I genuinely think we can challenge: Arsenal stumbled over the line, City have lost their greatest-ever manager, Liverpool’s defence already looks shaky, and Chelsea have 35 first-team players, which should cause its own problems. Realistically, I think we’ll finish third.
Key players/weak links: We’re looking forward to the link-up play between Tielemans and Bruno. Tielemans’s eye for a pass will be a big boost for our forwards. I can see Sesko building on a decent first season, but if we’re competing on four fronts we need to sign another striker. The weak spot is still left-back. Luke Shaw being fit was almost a miracle last season, but we can’t build a season around hoping his body holds together.
We still need to sign… A left-back, Lewis Hall would be my choice. We need another striker, we’ll probably get last-resort Watkins on the last day of the window, hopefully a straight swap for Rashford.
Our cult hero is… Carrick. He went from being the quiet bloke in the background to dragging United into the Champions League. There’s something very satisfying about a former United player coming back and actually understanding what the club is supposed to be.
If we could sign two players from our past… Robson and Rooney. Captain Marvel in midfield for the leadership, aggression, and sheer refusal to accept defeat. Rooney because he was everything you want from a modern forward: technically brilliant, ferocious, selfless, and capable of playing anywhere on the pitch.
We’ll finish 3rd. Top four: 1. Arsenal; 2. Manchester City; 3. Manchester United; 4. Liverpool. Bottom three: 18. Sunderland; 19. Leeds; 20. Ipswich. First manager sacked: Oliver Glasner, gone before Halloween.
Shaun O’Donnell
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Michael Carrick: cult hero. Photograph: Niall Carson/PA
Newcastle
We’re hurting. We’ve lost our most successful manager in decades, plus his talismanic captain. Big names have left, and we’ve been humiliated in the transfer market for the second summer running. Yes, a reset was needed, but we weren’t expecting it to be like this. At least, in Matthias Jaissle, we have a hungry, passionate young manager whose intensity will beHe’s a welcome addition. He clearly has the hunger for the challenge, and despite the players we’ve let go, the German has some exciting talent to work with. According to CEO David Hopkinson, this is “Newcastle United 2.0.” We’ll find out what that actually means in a few months.
Key players/weak links: Lewis Miley is “one of our own,” and with Tonali gone, he can really reach his potential. We’ll also be looking for better performances in goal, with Lukas Hornicek and Ewen Jaouen battling for the keeper spot. And if Yoane Wissa and Anthony Elanga can bring their World Cup form to the league, we could have a strong attack on our hands. The weak links? Joe Willock, who didn’t contribute much last season, and sadly, Sven Botman, whose form has never recovered from his ACL injury in 2024.
We still need to sign: a replacement for Bruno Guimarães, leaders both on and off the pitch, solid backup at both full-back positions, and a centre-half. So, not asking for much… Benfica’s versatile full-back Amar Dedič and Milan’s centre-half Fikayo Tomori would be a great start. Crucially, we need to add more experience to our young squad, but any deals will have to be done quietly, especially given how Liverpool have been acting lately…
Our cult hero is: Big Dan Burn. A giant of a man, with a heart to match.
If we could sign two players from our past: Alan Shearer for his leadership and goals, and of course, the much-loved and much-missed Kevin Keegan. Both knew what it meant to wear the black-and-white shirt.
We’ll finish 10th. Top four: 1. Arsenal; 2. Manchester City; 3. Liverpool; 4. Chelsea. Bottom three: 18. Ipswich; 19. Coventry; 20. Hull. First manager sacked: Álvaro Arbeloa.
David and Richard Holmes
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Matthias Jaissle: welcome intensity. Photograph: Jamie Johnston/Focus Images Ltd/Shutterstock
Nottingham Forest
If nothing else, it can’t be as chaotic as last season. We survived fairly comfortably in the end – thanks Vítor! – then sacked him in favour of Glasner, with the reasoning that the Austrian has won trophies. So this time, the goal isn’t just a decent league finish, but also some silverware.
Key players/weak links: The key, like last season, will be Morgan Gibbs-White: the talisman, the on-pitch leader, and the guy who makes things happen for the Reds. After being overlooked for Tommy T’s England squad, he’ll be eager to keep proving his worth.
We still need to sign: Getting Ousmane Diomande feels important; Murillo and Milenkovic make a great pair, but we were still vulnerable in defence last season, and the new guy should complement the strengths of the existing duo. Even though we have plenty of wingers, we desperately need a reliable striker: we can’t keep relying on a 35-year-old with a chronic knee problem.
Our cult hero is: Fans of other clubs love to take shots at our owner, and Reds supporters are often quick to defend him. For all the controversies, I genuinely think Marinakis has been great for Forest and for English football: ruthlessly ambitious, aware that decisions carry risk as well as reward, and unwilling to back down in the face of so-called “big clubs” or the authorities. He’s made some high-profile mistakes but doesn’t shy away from big calls (sorry Vítor!). And, of course, as Palace fans know (along with most of Greece), the Big Guy will also stand up for what he thinks is right and proper, and doesn’t care what others think.
If we could sign two players from our past: Stan Collymore and Des Walker: pace, power, brilliance.
We’ll finish 12th. Top four: 1. Chelsea; 2. Arsenal; 3. Liverpool; 4. Man United. Bottom three: 18. Crystal Palace; 19. Coventry; 20. Hull. First manager sacked: De Zerbi.
Rich Ferraro, 1865: The Nottingham Forest Podcast
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Ousmane Diomande: important arrival. Photograph: Lee Keuneke/Every Second Media/ShutterstockSunderland
I’m optimistic — but definitely cautiously optimistic. Last season completely exceeded our expectations, and finishing seventh with Europa League football on the horizon was incredible. However, Europe changes things. The biggest challenge will be managing the extra games without losing the spark that made us so enjoyable to watch. I’d be very happy with a comfortable mid-table finish and a decent European run. Consolidating ourselves in the league has to be the priority.
Key players/weak links: Xhaka is still absolutely pivotal — he brings so much leadership and control — while Le Fée is probably the player I most enjoy watching. I’m also really excited to see what Talbi does this year. He was managed really well last season without too much pressure being put on him, but this feels like his season to really kick on. I don’t think there’s an obvious individual weak link; the concern is whether we have enough depth to compete on multiple fronts.
We still need to sign … I’d still like another attacking option, ideally someone who can play on the right and offer genuine end product. Geny Catamo is an interesting link, but I know the club won’t move unless the figures line up. More than anything, I want quality depth. We could play a ridiculous number of games this season, so we need options rather than simply another big name.
Our cult hero is … Wilson Isidor without question. His “football is life, Sunderland is life” clip probably summed it up perfectly. He gets the club and we genuinely love him. Add in the personality, the goals and his ability to do something brilliant or completely chaotic, and he feels destined to go viral several times this season.
If we could sign two players from our past … Kevin Phillips is the obvious first choice. Put peak Phillips alongside Brobbey and you’ve got a ruthless finisher playing off someone who can hold the ball up and occupy defenders. My second would be Amad. He’d give us quality, creativity and unpredictability out wide, and after how loved he was during his loan spell, bringing him back would feel like a proper homecoming. Put Amad on the wing with Phillips and Brobbey through the middle and I’d be getting dangerously carried away very quickly.
We will finish 12th. Top four: 1. Arsenal; 2. Manchester City; 3. Liverpool; 4. Manchester United. Bottom three: 18. Fulham; 19. Coventry; 20. Hull. First manager sacked: Sergej Jakirovic.
Eleanor McCabe @eleanor_amc for @WiseMenSayPod, wisemensay.co.uk
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Wilson Isidor: ‘Sunderland is life’. Photograph: Sameer Al-Doumy/AFP/Getty Images
Tottenham
Nothing screams more “Tottenham Hotspur” than stating we’re going to have an outstanding season having finished 17th twice in succession and narrowly avoided relegation. We probably should have gone down. Somehow West Ham managed to be a little bit more rubbish than a team that could barely win home games. Roberto De Zerbi and Enic’s personality change (spending money on end products) is why I’m flirting with the idea of a top-five finish. Absolute greed on my part, but it’s fun to believe. Top eight would be grand.
Key players/weak links: Still work to do, but the backline has been rebooted and Micky van de Ven has signed a new contract. In midfield, with Tonali and Fernandes (two of the best mids available to sign) and with Kudus and Deki to return, we finally have depth, quality and strength. The aim will be to galvanise and rejuvenate our home form and regain that confidence and swagger. The key is De Zerbi. His appointment has changed everything. As for youngsters, Luca Williams-Barnett has all the potential to be something special.
We still need to sign … We’ll need plenty done over the next few windows, but ideally, we could do with a winger (we’ve been chasing Savinho for what feels forever) plus a No 10 and a forward. Maddison getting injured again is a concern. We need more than just Solanke up top, with Richy lMost likely to leave: Our cult hero is Djed Spence, thanks to his World Cup performances – but we’re selling him to Inter. So it has to be the Spurs social media team; that sense of togetherness is exactly the feel-good boost we need.
If we could sign two players from our past: It feels like cheating, but let’s bring Harry Kane up front and Gareth Bale on the wing (or anywhere he wants to play).
We’ll finish 17th or 1st. Top four: 1. Tottenham; 2. Manchester City; 3. Liverpool; 4. Manchester United. Bottom three: 18. Nottingham Forest; 19. Newcastle; 20. Aston Villa. First manager to be sacked: Mikel Arteta.
Spooky – The Fighting Cock podcast; @DearMrLevy; Filthy Shambles podcast on Spotify.
View image in fullscreen: Sandro Tonali – quality and strength. Photograph: Steve Christo/Corbis/Getty Images.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here is a list of FAQs about a clubbyclub Premier League preview guide for the 202627 season written in a natural tone
General Questions
Q What exactly is this clubbyclub guide
A Its a detailed preview of the upcoming Premier League season broken down into a dedicated section for each of the 20 clubs Think of it as your onestop shop for everything you need to know before the first kickoff
Q When will the 202627 previews be available to read
A Typically these guides are published in batches throughout July and early August once the summer transfer window starts taking shape and preseason friendlies are underway We aim to have all 20 clubs finalized by the seasons opening weekend
Q Is this guide free to access or do I need a subscription
A This depends on the specific publisher Many major sports outlets offer a few free previews as a teaser with the full set reserved for subscribers Check the specific websites policy but there is usually a mix
Q Im new to following the Premier League Will this guide make sense to me
A Absolutely While we dive into tactics and transfer strategies each preview starts with a simple summary of the clubs current situation We explain key terms and focus on what the average fan needs to know so you wont feel lost
Content Preview Specifics
Q What kind of information can I expect in each clubs preview
A Each guide covers four main areas
1 Transfers Who theyve bought who theyve sold and who they still need to sign
2 Tactics The managers likely formation and style of play
3 Key Players The star performers and the young players to watch
4 Season Prediction A realistic assessment of where theyll likely finish in the table
Q How do you predict the final league table Is it just guesswork
A Its educated guesswork Our predictions are based on a combination of factors the quality of the squad the managers track record the difficulty of their opening fixtures and the overall strength of their transfer business compared to rivals
