The English Premier League 2025-26 season is poised to be another captivating spectacle, featuring intense competition from the top of the table to the very bottom. This report provides a detailed prediction of the final standings for all 20 clubs, offering a thorough analysis of their strengths, weaknesses, managerial strategies, and transfer market activities. The upcoming season is characterized by significant managerial shifts, ambitious recruitment drives, and the inherent challenges faced by both established clubs and newly promoted sides.
Predicted 2025-26 Premier League Final Standings
The following table presents the projected final standings for the 2025-26 Premier League season, offering a concise overview of each club’s anticipated performance and the primary factors influencing their position.
The Title Contenders & European Aspirants (Predicted 1st – 6th)
This segment delves into the clubs projected to vie for the Premier League title and secure coveted berths in the UEFA Champions League and Europa League. The analysis focuses on squad strength, the influence of new managerial approaches, and strategic activity in the transfer market.
Manchester City
Manchester City enters the 2025-26 Premier League season as a formidable contender, despite experiencing what has been described as a “traumatic 2024-25 season”. This characterization likely refers to their failure to secure the Premier League title, which was won by Liverpool. However, the club’s inherent quality, vast financial resources, and the continued presence of Pep Guardiola at the helm establish them as perennial favorites. Guardiola’s deeply ingrained philosophy of fluid, possession-based football provides an unmatched level of tactical stability and a well-drilled system.
The club’s transfer activity during the summer of 2025 has been highly strategic, directly addressing areas of need and adapting to significant departures. They invested substantially in new talent, including Rayan Aït-Nouri, a left-back acquired for £36.3 million, central midfielders Tijjani Reijnders (£46.3 million) and Nico González (£50 million), attacking midfielder/right-winger Rayan Cherki (£34 million), and striker Omar Marmoush (£59 million). The return of İlkay Gündoğan on a free transfer further bolsters their midfield with experience and tactical versatility. The acquisition of James Trafford for £27 million also provides a long-term solution in the goalkeeping department.
The extensive investment, particularly in midfield and attack, directly addresses the void created by the departure of club legend Kevin De Bruyne, a monumental loss to their creative and scoring output. This proactive spending, even after qualifying for the Champions League in the previous season , underscores a relentless pursuit of perfection and a desire to re-establish dominance, rather than simply maintaining the status quo. The return of a familiar and influential figure like Gündoğan is expected to ease the integration of new players into the squad.
Pre-season form offered a glimpse into the team’s preparations, with a comfortable 3-0 victory over Palermo, where new signing Tijjani Reijnders notably found the net. This early indication suggests a solid start to their campaign, with new personnel already demonstrating their capabilities within Guardiola’s system.
Liverpool
Liverpool approaches the 2025-26 season as the reigning Premier League champions , entering the campaign with a strong foundation built on their impressive 26-match unbeaten run in 2024-25. However, the club is undergoing a significant transition following Jürgen Klopp’s retirement , marking the end of an era. Arne Slot has taken the managerial reins , ushering in a new tactical direction.
Slot is characterized as a “control man” , whose tactical philosophy emphasizes a high defensive line, aggressive pressing, and a preference for creating chances through central zones with a “shoot at sight” mentality. His system is described as structured yet adaptable, focusing on ball control and “techno-tactical behaviors” to manipulate opponents and create space. This approach represents an evolution from Klopp’s high-octane “heavy metal” football, aiming for a more controlled yet effective style of play.
The summer transfer window saw a massive overhaul of the squad, with Liverpool spending over £300 million. Key arrivals include Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez, and Giorgi Mamardashvili. Italian defender Giovanni Leoni was also acquired for £26 million. This influx of new talent aims to maintain their competitive edge.
However, the squad also experienced significant departures, including key figures like Trent Alexander-Arnold (to Real Madrid), Luis Diaz (to Bayern Munich), and Darwin Nunez (to Al-Hilal). Jarell Quansah (to Bayer Leverkusen) and Caoimhin Kelleher (to Brentford) also moved on. The extensive transfer activity, particularly the sales of Alexander-Arnold, a crucial creative hub, and two major forwards, suggests a deliberate reshaping of the squad to align with Slot’s system. The success of this transition hinges on how quickly the new attacking talents integrate and how effectively the team adapts to playing without established stars.
Pre-season form yielded mixed results. While they secured wins against Preston (3-1), Stoke (5-0), Yokohama FM (3-1), and Athletic Club (4-1, 3-2), they also suffered a loss to AC Milan (2-4) and a Community Shield defeat on penalties to Crystal Palace. The Community Shield loss, though minor, suggests that early season adjustments and potential jitters could be a factor as the new system beds in.
Arsenal
Arsenal continues to solidify its position as a strong contender, having secured a Champions League spot in the 2024-25 season. Their summer transfer strategy has been highly targeted, focusing on key areas to elevate their challenge for the Premier League title.
Mikel Arteta provides continuity as manager , and his tactical approach, centered on control and progressive play, is well-established within the squad. The club has made significant additions to bolster its core, including striker Viktor Gyokeres for £64 million, midfielders Martin Zubimendi (£60 million) and Christian Nørgaard (£12 million), and winger Noni Madueke (£52 million). Kepa Arrizabalaga, acquired for £5 million, provides experienced goalkeeping backup.
The acquisition of Gyokeres specifically addresses the need for a consistent, high-volume goalscorer, a piece that has been perceived as missing in previous title challenges. Zubimendi and Nørgaard strengthen the midfield, offering both defensive solidity and progressive passing options, which are crucial for Arteta’s control-oriented system. Madueke’s arrival adds depth and dynamism on the wings. These are not merely squad players but potential starters or significant upgrades, indicating a clear intent to close the gap on the champions and mount a serious title challenge.
Departures from the squad include Nuno Tavares and Jorginho, with potential exits for Fabio Vieira and Oleksandr Zinchenko. While these players contributed, their departures are less impactful than the quality of the incoming talent.
Pre-season results were mixed, featuring wins over AC Milan (1-0), Newcastle (3-2), and Athletic Club (3-0), but also losses to Tottenham (0-1) and Villarreal (2-3). A positive sign emerged with Gyokeres scoring his first goal for the club against Athletic Club , providing an early indication of his potential impact on the team’s attacking prowess.
Chelsea
Chelsea secured a Champions League spot in the 2024-25 season and have continued their aggressive recruitment of young, high-potential talent. Under Enzo Maresca, who was appointed in June 2024 and has now had a full season to implement his philosophy, the team appears to be gelling effectively.
Maresca’s philosophy, often termed “Maresca ball,” emphasizes possession, building from the back with short, deliberate passes, and utilizing an inverted full-back to create numerical superiority in a 3-2-5 attacking shape. When out of possession, they adopt a compact 4-4-2 mid-block with aggressive pressing to force errors. The observation that “Maresca ball doesn’t feel like such a chore to watch” suggests that the team is adapting to his complex system, and the new signings are being successfully integrated.
The summer transfer window saw a continued focus on youth development, with significant signings such as Joao Pedro (£60 million striker), Jamie Gittens (£55 million winger), Liam Delap (£30 million striker), Dario Essugo (£18.5 million midfielder), and Jorrel Hato (center-back/left-back). Future arrivals like Estevao and Kendry Paez further underscore their long-term vision.
Notable departures include Noni Madueke (to Arsenal), Marcus Bettinelli (to Man City), and Armando Broja (to Burnley). Loaned players like Ben Chilwell (to Crystal Palace) and Axel Disasi (to Aston Villa) are also expected to make permanent exits. While these departures are noteworthy, the arrival of talents like Joao Pedro and Gittens, who are better suited to Maresca’s preference for inverted wingers and versatile second strikers , offsets them. This alignment between managerial philosophy and recruitment indicates a more cohesive strategy, which could lead to greater consistency and a stronger challenge for top honors.
Pre-season form was excellent, highlighted by their victory in the FIFA Club World Cup, where they defeated Benfica 4-1 and Paris Saint-Germain 3-0 in the final. They also secured comfortable wins against Bayer Leverkusen (2-0) and AC Milan (4-1). This strong pre-season performance provides significant confidence and suggests that Maresca’s tactical principles, which require high technical skill and tactical awareness , are starting to be understood and executed effectively by the squad.
Manchester United experienced significant managerial instability during the 2024-25 season , but with Ruben Amorim now fully in charge, the club aims for a period of stability and progression. Erik ten Hag was sacked mid-season, with Amorim taking over in November 2024. Amorim brings a “proactive, philosophy-driven approach” , focusing on dominating possession, deep build-up, and playing through the middle. His preferred formation often involves a back-three (1-3-4-3 or 1-3-2-5 in attack) with an emphasis on wing-backs.
The summer transfer window saw major attacking reinforcements, including Matheus Cunha (£62.5 million), Bryan Mbeumo (£65 million), and Benjamin Sesko. Jadon Sancho also returned on loan from Chelsea. These attacking acquisitions are impressive and directly address a need for consistent goalscoring.
However, the team also saw significant departures, notably Marcus Rashford, who went on loan to Barcelona , representing a considerable loss of directness and attacking threat. Christian Eriksen, Jonny Evans, and Victor Lindelof also departed upon the expiry of their contracts. Amorim’s system requires specific player profiles, particularly for wing-backs and ball-playing center-backs. While the attacking signings are promising, the loss of Rashford and the challenge of adapting to a new defensive structure could lead to initial struggles.
Pre-season form was mixed, with early losses to ASEAN All-Stars (0-1) and Hong Kong (1-3). However, they later secured wins against West Ham (2-1) and Bournemouth (4-1), and draws against Leeds (0-0), Everton (2-2), and Fiorentina (1-1, won on penalties). The early pre-season losses might reflect the teething problems associated with integrating new players into a new, complex system. Success will depend on how quickly the squad adapts to Amorim’s “structured yet attacking style” and whether the new attacking trio can compensate for any defensive vulnerabilities during the transition. The club’s strategy appears to be one of “short term pain for long term gain” , but the Premier League offers little patience for adaptation.
Tottenham Hotspur
Tottenham Hotspur secured a Champions League spot in the previous season , but the 2025-26 season marks a significant managerial change. Thomas Frank has left Brentford to take over at Tottenham , bringing a new tactical direction to the club. Frank is known for an “adaptable, aggressive, thoughtful and attack-minded” approach. His teams are typically high-scoring, emphasizing width, crosses, and pace in attack, while also being capable of high pressing and creating defensive overloads. Although he generally prefers a back four, he is tactically flexible and willing to adjust his strategies based on opponents.
The summer transfer window saw several key additions. Mohammed Kudus (£63.8 million), Mathys Tel (£35 million), Kevin Danso (£25 million), Kota Takai (£5.8 million), and Luka Vuskovic (£11 million) have all joined the club. Additionally, Joao Palhinha has arrived on loan , adding defensive midfield steel.
A significant departure is Son Heung-Min, who moved for £22 million , representing a considerable loss of a long-standing key attacker. Pierre-Emile Højbjerg (£13.5 million) and Bryan Gil (who spent last season on loan at Girona and is likely to depart permanently) also left the club. Frank’s tactical flexibility will be crucial in adapting to Son’s departure. The signings of Kudus and Tel provide pace and goal threat in forward areas, aligning with Frank’s preference for mobile attackers.
Pre-season form was mixed. They secured a win over Reading (2-0) and draws with Wycombe (2-2), Luton (0-0), and Newcastle (1-1). However, they also suffered losses to Arsenal (0-1) and a notable 0-4 defeat to Bayern Munich. The heavy loss to Bayern Munich highlights that integrating new players and a new system, especially defensively, will require time. The challenge for Tottenham will be to maintain their European standing while transitioning away from a reliance on established individual stars and fully embracing Frank’s adaptable, system-based approach.
The Mid-Table Battlegrounds (Predicted 7th – 14th)
This section examines clubs that are expected to navigate the competitive mid-table landscape, aiming for stability, potential European pushes, or striving to avoid relegation battles. The analysis focuses on squad depth, tactical adaptability, and the performance of key players.
Aston Villa
Aston Villa secured a Europa League spot in the 2024-25 season , indicating a strong performance. While the club has made significant sales during the summer transfer window, their strategic reinvestment in attacking talent, coupled with Unai Emery’s proven tactical prowess and European experience , should enable them to remain competitive for European places.
Unai Emery provides continuity as manager , and his expertise in European competitions is invaluable for the club’s ambitions. The transfer market saw notable attacking additions, including Donyell Malen (£25 million forward) and Evann Guessand (£30 million forward). The loan arrivals of Marcus Rashford and Marco Asensio could provide immediate impact and quality to the squad.
However, Villa also made major sales, including Jhon Durán (£77 million), Jaden Philogene (£23.7 million), and Diego Carlos (£10 million). The large sum received for Durán provides significant funds for reinvestment, but replacing a striker of his caliber (assuming he was impactful) is inherently challenging. The reliance on loan players like Rashford and Asensio, while adding quality, inherently lacks long-term commitment and consistent squad building. This strategy suggests a desire to maintain European football, but it introduces an element of year-to-year instability.
Pre-season form was inconsistent, with wins against St Louis City SC (2-1), Roma (4-0), and Villarreal (2-0). Conversely, they suffered losses to Walsall (0-1), Hansa Rostock (1-3), and Marseille (1-3). This mixed bag of results might indicate challenges in integrating new attacking options and maintaining defensive solidity after key departures. Their ability to remain in European contention will depend on how well these new, often temporary, attacking pieces click and contribute consistently.
Newcastle United
Newcastle United secured a Champions League spot in the 2024-25 season , a testament to their progress. However, their pre-season campaign proved challenging, raising some concerns for the upcoming season. Eddie Howe provides continuity as manager , known for his high-energy, attacking football.
In the summer transfer window, Anthony Elanga (£55 million winger) was a significant attacking acquisition , expected to add pace and directness. Aaron Ramsdale joined on loan as goalkeeping backup. However, the club also saw notable departures, including Sean Longstaff (£12 million to Leeds) and Callum Wilson. Lloyd Kelly also left the club. While Alexander Isak was linked with a move away, he ultimately remained with the club , which is crucial for their attacking threat.
The pre-season form was concerning, with multiple losses to strong opponents such as Atletico Madrid (0-2), Celtic (0-4), K-League XI (0-1), and Arsenal (2-3). The heavy losses, particularly the 0-4 defeat to Celtic, indicate defensive issues that require urgent attention, especially given their Champions League commitments. While retaining Isak is vital for their attack, the departures of Longstaff, a key midfield engine, and Wilson, an experienced striker, could impact overall squad depth and tactical flexibility. Elanga’s arrival adds pace but might not fully compensate for the overall balance of the team. Their ability to compete effectively on multiple fronts (Premier League and Champions League) will be severely tested if defensive frailties persist, potentially leading to a consolidation in their league position rather than a push higher up the table.
Brighton & Hove Albion
Brighton & Hove Albion enters the new season with a positive outlook, having enjoyed a strong pre-season under Fabian Hürzeler, whose tactical philosophy appears to align well with the club’s established identity. Hürzeler, appointed in June 2024 , emphasizes possession, high pressing, quick transitions, and tactical flexibility. He also places a strong focus on youth development, a hallmark of Brighton’s strategy.
Despite major sales, Brighton’s recruitment strategy continues to be effective, allowing them to maintain a competitive edge. Notable incomings include Maxim De Cuyper (£20 million left-back), D. Coppola (£11 million center-back), C. Kostoulas (£35 million forward), and Tom Watson (£12 million left-winger from Sunderland).
However, the club also saw significant departures of key players. João Pedro moved to Chelsea for £63.7 million, Simon Adingra joined Sunderland for £24.4 million, Pervis Estupiñán transferred to AC Milan for £17 million, and Evan Ferguson was loaned to Roma. The pre-season success, with the team going unbeaten and scoring freely , suggests that the new players are integrating well and that Hürzeler’s system is functioning effectively despite these significant departures. This indicates the strength of Brighton’s recruitment and coaching infrastructure, allowing them to consistently replace key players and maintain a competitive level. The primary challenge for the season will be to manage squad depth effectively, particularly if injuries affect the new faces, given the reliance on their immediate impact.
Nottingham Forest
Nottingham Forest secured a Europa League spot in the 2024-25 season after a strong charge under Nuno Espirito Santo. Nuno Espirito Santo provides continuity as manager , known for his structured approach. While the club has managed to make a profit in the transfer window, their pre-season scoring struggles raise concerns about their ability to sustain their attacking threat in the Premier League.
In terms of transfers, Forest brought in Dan Ndoye (£34 million), Igor Jesus (£10 million), and Jair Cunha , along with experienced goalkeeper Angus Gunn on a free transfer. However, they also made significant sales, including Anthony Elanga (£55 million to Newcastle), Danilo (£18.6 million), Ramon Sosa (£10 million), Andrew Omobamidele (£10.5 million), and Matt Turner (£8 million). A major boost for the club was Morgan Gibbs-White signing a new contract , retaining a crucial creative force.
Forest’s transfer activity resulted in a significant profit of £39.6 million , primarily due to the £55 million sale of Elanga. While this financial prudence is commendable, the low-scoring pre-season, where they managed only one goal in seven games (a 3-1 loss to Fulham) and recorded five 0-0 draws , raises questions about their ability to create and convert chances at a Premier League level. Nuno Espirito Santo’s teams are often structured, but this offensive drought, even in friendlies, suggests a potential struggle to break down defenses. Their European commitments will add fixture congestion, further testing their squad depth and ability to maintain a high level of performance without a consistent goal threat. This could see them drop from their European qualification position.
West Ham United
West Ham United concluded the 2024-25 season in a mid-table position (implied by not being in European spots or relegated in ) and now have Graham Potter fully in charge, having taken over mid-season in January 2025. Potter’s philosophy is flexible, emphasizing defensive stability with a back five (5-2-3), possession-based play, and high-intensity pressing. He is known for adapting his shape to the players available and the opponents faced.
The club saw the major loss of Mohammed Kudus to Manchester United , a key creative force. To compensate, they made notable additions, including Callum Wilson (from Newcastle) and Maximilian Kilman (from Wolves). Mads Hermansen and Kyle Walker-Peters also arrived. The loan of Evan Ferguson from Brighton provides a promising attacking option. Other departures include Kurt Zouma, Nayef Aguerd, and Benrahma.
Potter’s tactical flexibility and his ability to adapt his system to the players at his disposal will be crucial in compensating for Kudus’s departure. Wilson provides a proven goalscorer, and Kilman strengthens the defense, aligning with Potter’s emphasis on defensive solidity. However, replacing Kudus’s unique blend of creativity and goalscoring will be a significant challenge.
Pre-season form was mixed, with wins over Grasshopper (3-1) and Everton (2-1), but losses to Manchester United (1-2) and Bournemouth (0-2). Their mid-table position will depend on how quickly Potter can implement his desired “dominant, dynamic style” and whether other players can step up to fill the creative void left by Kudus.
Crystal Palace
Crystal Palace enjoyed a strong end to the 2024-25 season, securing a Conference League spot as FA Cup winners. Oliver Glasner provides continuity as manager. While the club experienced the significant loss of Michael Olise, their Community Shield victory and shrewd loan signings suggest they can build on their recent momentum.
In the transfer market, Crystal Palace brought in Borna Sosa (£2.3 million) and W. Benítez (free goalkeeper). They also heavily utilized the loan market, securing Ben Chilwell and Trevoh Chalobah (both from Chelsea), Matt Turner (from Forest), Eddie Nketiah (from Arsenal), and Ismaïla Sarr.
The departure of Michael Olise for £53 million , a key creative force, will undoubtedly test Palace’s ability to maintain their attacking threat. However, the success in the Community Shield, where they defeated Liverpool on penalties , and the influx of quality loan players, such as Nketiah for goals, Chilwell for defensive solidity and attacking prowess, and Sarr for pace, indicates a strategic approach to mitigate the loss and add immediate quality without long-term financial commitment. This approach, while providing short-term boosts, could lead to squad instability year-on-year if these loans are not converted into permanent deals. Their ability to push for European qualification will depend on these loan players performing consistently and the remaining core stepping up to fill the creative void.
Pre-season form was strong, including wins over Millwall (1-0), Crawley Town (3-0), and Augsburg (3-1). These results, combined with their Community Shield triumph, suggest a positive start to their preparations for the new season.
This section provides a detailed examination of the newly promoted teams and established clubs facing significant challenges, assessing their prospects for Premier League survival.
Wolverhampton Wanderers
Wolverhampton Wanderers concluded the 2024-25 season in a mid-table position (implied by not being in European spots or relegated in ) but experienced a managerial change mid-season. Vítor Pereira took over in December 2024. His philosophy emphasizes discipline, organization, and defensive solidity. He is known for his tactical adaptability, utilizing both back three and back four formations, and focusing on managing spaces and the ball effectively. However, significant sales of key players could make the 2025-26 season a considerable challenge for the club.
In the transfer market, Wolves made notable attacking additions, including Fer López (£19.6 million right-winger), Jørgen Strand Larsen (£23 million center-forward), and Jhon Arias (right-winger). However, they also saw major sales of influential players: Matheus Cunha moved to Manchester United for £62.5 million, and Rayan Aït-Nouri joined Manchester City for £31 million. Pablo Sarabia and Craig Dawson also departed.
The large fees received for Cunha and Aït-Nouri provide significant funds for reinvestment. However, replacing two such influential players, especially a prolific striker like Cunha, is incredibly difficult. Pereira’s focus on defensive solidity will be tested by the loss of Aït-Nouri, who was a key attacking wing-back. The inconsistent pre-season results, which included wins over West Ham (3-1) and RB Leipzig (3-0), but losses to Crystal Palace (1-3), Lens (1-3), Girona (1-2), and Celta Vigo (0-1) , suggest that the new attacking players might need time to gel and consistently produce. This could lead to a season of consolidation rather than progression. Their ability to stay clear of the relegation zone will depend on how quickly the new attacking unit adapts and whether Pereira can maintain defensive discipline with a reshuffled backline.
Fulham
Fulham secured a mid-table finish in the 2024-25 season (implied by not being in European spots or relegated in ). However, the club has had a very quiet summer transfer window with few major incomings, which could lead to stagnation in a highly competitive league. Marco Silva provides continuity as manager.
In terms of transfers, Benjamin Lecomte (goalkeeper) was the only notable signing. On the other hand, Willian and Vinícius departed , and key players like Rodrigo Muniz and Adama Traore were linked with exits. In the highly competitive Premier League, standing still often means falling behind.
While their pre-season form was strong, with wins over Aberdeen (4-1), Nottingham Forest (3-1), Al-Ittihad (4-2), and Eintracht Frankfurt (1-0) , the lack of significant investment, especially in attacking areas, could lead to a struggle for goals and creativity over a full season. This challenge would be exacerbated if key players suffer injuries or a dip in form. This conservative approach in the transfer market, combined with potential departures, could see them slide down the table, making them vulnerable to teams that have invested more aggressively.
Brentford
Brentford has established itself as a Premier League mainstay , but the upcoming season presents a significant challenge due to a new manager and the loss of several key players, including their top scorer. Thomas Frank left for Tottenham, and Keith Andrews, their former set-piece coach, has replaced him. Andrews emphasizes continuity, progression, and leveraging set-pieces (kick-offs, throw-ins) and aggressive pressing as tactical strengths.
In the transfer market, Brentford brought in Caoimhin Kelleher (£12.5 million goalkeeper from Liverpool) and Jordan Henderson (free central midfielder from Ajax) , adding notable experience. Antoni Milambo (£18.8 million central midfielder) and Michael Kayode (£14.5 million forward) also joined.
However, the club suffered major losses, including Bryan Mbeumo (£65 million to Manchester United), their top scorer and a key attacker. Christian Norgaard (£10 million to Arsenal), their captain, and Mark Flekken (£11 million) also departed. Yoane Wissa also faces an uncertain future. The departure of Mbeumo, in particular, represents a substantial test for the club.
Brentford’s model relies on shrewd recruitment, tactical innovation (especially set-pieces), and a strong collective. The promotion of Andrews, who was responsible for their highly effective set-piece routines , is a gamble on continuity and leveraging a specific strength. However, replacing Mbeumo’s goals and Norgaard’s midfield presence will be a huge test. While Kelleher and Henderson add experience, the sheer volume of key departures could severely impact their attacking output and midfield control.
Pre-season form was mixed, with a win over QPR (1-0), draws with Gil Vicente (1-1) and Borussia Monchengladbach (2-2), and a loss to Borussia Monchengladbach (1-2). Their survival will depend on whether Andrews can translate his specialized coaching success into overall team performance and if the new signings can immediately fill the void left by the departed stars.
Everton
Everton endured a challenging 2024-25 season, which led to another managerial change. David Moyes returned to the club in January 2025. His philosophy is characterized by a direct approach, utilizing long balls, inverted wingers, overlapping fullbacks, and a compact 1-4-4-2 defensive block. While Moyes’ return and some key signings offer hope, their poor pre-season form and historical struggles suggest another season battling against relegation.
The summer transfer window saw significant additions, including Carlos Alcaraz (£15 million midfielder), Thierno Barry (£27 million forward), and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall (£25 million midfielder from Chelsea). Crucially, Jack Grealish joined on loan from Manchester City , a major coup that adds creativity and star power. However, Dominic Calvert-Lewin departed , and Neal Maupay also left the club.
Moyes’ tactical approach is often pragmatic, focusing on getting results in tough situations. The loan signing of Grealish is a significant boost, providing the creativity and star quality Everton desperately needs, particularly after losing Calvert-Lewin’s goal threat. However, the dismal pre-season form, with only one win (2-1 vs Port Vale) and multiple losses to Bournemouth (0-3), West Ham (1-2), and Roma (0-1), plus draws with Accrington Stanley (1-1) and Manchester United (2-2) , suggests that the team is still struggling to adapt and find its rhythm under Moyes. Their ability to survive will hinge on Grealish’s impact and Moyes’s capacity to quickly instill defensive solidity and find a consistent goalscoring threat from the new attacking players. Another season battling at the bottom seems highly probable.
Bournemouth
Bournemouth successfully maintained their Premier League status in 2024-25 (implied by not being relegated in ). However, the club has made massive sales of key defenders during the summer transfer window. This significant defensive overhaul, despite some new signings, makes them highly vulnerable for the upcoming season. Andoni Iraola provides continuity as manager.
In the transfer market, Bournemouth brought in Djordje Petrović (£29 million goalkeeper from Chelsea) , a significant signing. Adrien Truffert (£13.5 million left-back) and Bafodé Diakité (£34.6 million center-back) were acquired as defensive reinforcements.
However, the club saw the departure of three key defenders: Dean Huijsen (£59.5 million to Real Madrid), Milos Kerkez (£30 million to Liverpool), and Illia Zabarnyi (£54.5 million to Paris Saint-Germain). These represent massive sales of crucial defensive players. While the financial windfall from these sales is substantial, replacing three starting-caliber defenders in one transfer window is an incredibly challenging task, especially for a club of Bournemouth’s stature.
Pre-season form was mixed, with high-scoring wins over Hibernian (2-1) and Bristol City (6-2). However, they also suffered heavy losses to Manchester United (1-4) and West Ham (0-2) , where they conceded multiple goals. These results highlight an immediate defensive vulnerability. Their ability to maintain Premier League status will depend entirely on how quickly the new defensive unit gels and if the remaining squad can compensate for potential defensive instability. This strategy carries significant risk and could see them dragged into the relegation zone.
Burnley (Promoted)
Burnley secured automatic promotion from the Championship in 2024-25 with an impressive 100 points , demonstrating strong domestic form. Scott Parker remains manager , having guided them to promotion. He emphasizes a “committed team” and adaptability, focusing on resilience for the Premier League challenge. Despite retaining their manager and investing heavily in the squad, the step up to the Premier League is immense, posing a formidable challenge.
The club has made significant investment for a promoted side, bringing in Armando Broja (from Chelsea), Kyle Walker (from Manchester City), Lesley Ugochukwu (from Chelsea), Marcus Edwards, Jaidon Anthony, Bashir Humphreys (from Chelsea), and Martin Dubravka (from Newcastle). These acquisitions of proven Premier League quality (Walker, Broja) and high-potential young players (Ugochukwu) show an aggressive intent to bridge the gap and avoid a repeat of their previous immediate relegation under a more rigid approach. However, James Trafford (£27 million to Manchester City) is a notable departure from the squad.
Parker’s emphasis on adaptability is a direct lesson from Vincent Kompany’s rigid approach that led to relegation in a previous Premier League attempt. The substantial investment in the squad aims to provide the necessary quality. However, their pre-season form was mixed and low-scoring, with wins over Fleetwood (1-0), Huddersfield (2-0), draws with Shrewsbury (2-2) and Wolves (1-1), but losses to Stoke (0-1) and Lazio (0-1). This suggests they might still struggle to convert chances against stronger opposition. Their survival will depend on whether Parker’s adaptability can translate into consistent points and if the new signings can hit the ground running, especially in attack.
Leeds United (Promoted)
Leeds United secured automatic promotion from the Championship in 2024-25 with 100 points and an impressive goal difference of +65. Daniel Farke remains manager , having led them to promotion. His tactical philosophy is possession-based, with patient build-up, rotational positional play, and a compact mid-block defense. This indicates a well-drilled, defensively solid team with a clear identity.
The club made targeted signings to bolster their squad for the Premier League challenge. Lukas Nmecha (free), Jaka Bijol (center-back), Sebastiaan Bornauw (center-back), Gabriel Gudmundsson (left-back), Sean Longstaff (central midfielder from Newcastle), Anton Stach (central midfielder), and Lucas Perri (goalkeeper) all joined. Junior Firpo departed the club. The defensive and midfield reinforcements are crucial for solidity in the top flight.
Leeds’ pre-season form was strong, as they remained unbeaten with wins over SC Verl (4-1) and SC Paderborn (3-2), and draws against Manchester United (0-0), Villarreal (1-1), and AC Milan (1-1). However, Farke’s patient, possession-based style , while effective in controlling games, can also be susceptible to high-intensity pressing from superior Premier League teams, potentially leading to turnovers in dangerous areas. The draws against Premier League and European opposition in pre-season suggest they might struggle to convert possession into goals against top-flight defenses. Their survival will depend on how well their structured approach translates against higher quality opposition and whether they can find consistent goalscoring.
Sunderland (Promoted)
Sunderland secured promotion to the Premier League via the Championship play-offs , ending an eight-year absence from the top flight. Regis Le Bris remains manager , having guided them to promotion. His philosophy involves a structured approach, youth development, wide triangles, and wide 1v1s in attack. Defensively, they are generally passive in a compact 4-4-2 mid-block but can press aggressively from goal-kicks. However, the sheer scale of their spending and squad turnover for a promoted side, combined with a mixed pre-season, suggests they might struggle to find cohesion quickly enough.
The club has invested very heavily for a promoted side, spending £146.5 million on new signings. Notable arrivals include Enzo Le Fée (£19.3 million), Habib Diarra (£30 million), Noah Sadiki (£17.5 million), Chemsdine Talbi (£19.5 million), Simon Adingra (£21 million from Brighton), and Granit Xhaka (£17.3 million from Bayer Leverkusen). They also brought in Reinildo Mandava (free left-back), Arthur Masuaku (free left-back), and Omar Alderete (£10.4 million center-back). Marc Guiu joined on loan from Chelsea.
On the outgoing front, Jobe Bellingham (£32 million to Borussia Dortmund) and Tom Watson (£11 million to Brighton) are notable departures. The significant expenditure and high volume of new players for a promoted club represent a high-stakes gamble.
Pre-season form was mixed. While their U21s notably beat Liverpool (2-1) , the first team suffered a 0-3 loss to Rayo Vallecano in their final friendly. The massive influx of new players, despite their individual quality, poses a significant challenge for team cohesion and understanding of Le Bris’s tactical system. Integrating so many new faces, especially in a league as demanding as the Premier League, often requires time that newly promoted clubs do not have. This substantial turnover, combined with a mixed pre-season, suggests they might struggle to find the necessary rhythm and understanding to compete effectively from the outset, making them highly susceptible to immediate relegation.
Conclusions
The 2025-26 Premier League season is set to be a compelling narrative of ambition, adaptation, and the relentless pursuit of success. At the top, Manchester City and Liverpool, despite their respective challenges and transitions, possess the inherent quality and strategic depth to contend for the title. Arsenal and Chelsea have made targeted, high-impact signings that suggest a narrowing of the gap to the established top two, with their managerial philosophies showing increasing cohesion within their squads. Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur face significant tactical overhauls under new management, which, while promising for the long term, could lead to initial inconsistencies as new systems and personnel integrate.
In the mid-table, clubs like Aston Villa, Newcastle, Brighton, and Nottingham Forest will contend for European places, with their success largely dependent on how effectively they manage player turnover and integrate new talent. West Ham, Crystal Palace, Wolves, and Fulham face varying degrees of challenge, from replacing key creative forces to navigating significant defensive rebuilds or simply risking stagnation due to limited transfer activity.
The relegation battle promises to be fierce. The promoted sides, Burnley, Leeds United, and Sunderland, each bring distinct qualities and transfer strategies. Burnley and Leeds, with their strong Championship campaigns and clear managerial visions, have invested to bridge the gap, but the sheer leap in quality remains a formidable hurdle. Sunderland’s aggressive spending and high player turnover, while demonstrating ambition, carry a significant risk of lacking immediate cohesion. Established Premier League teams like Everton and Bournemouth, grappling with managerial changes, poor pre-season form, and substantial defensive departures, appear poised for another season fighting for survival. Ultimately, the season’s outcome will be shaped by the speed of adaptation to new tactical systems, the successful integration of new players, and the resilience shown by clubs in navigating the Premier League’s unforgiving demands.
