Arsenal are expected to take charge once again in the Premier League season, which is described as a rollercoaster ride of emotional ups and downs. It took them more than two decades to win their last title, but Mikel Arteta's men now appear to be homing in on what would be a couple of titles almost at once.
Strongest Squad and Title Favourites
Arteta has the strongest squad in the top flight, and most importantly, one which now knows how to get the job done. It is difficult to see where their strongest challengers will come from, as Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea all face a season of transition due to having new managers at the helm.
Arsenal struck the first blow in the Community Shield.
Rivals in Transition
City, in particular, could be facing the heaviest hangover, having waved farewell to the greatest manager of his generation, and perhaps all time, in the shape of Pep Guardiola. Life without him will prove to be challenging.
Andola Iraola will need time to implement his methods at Anfield, while it remains to be seen how Xabi Alonso will get on at Chelsea. If he can instil some discipline and identity, however, Chelsea might just be the ones to push Arsenal to the limit.
Elsewhere, Aston Villa are riding the crest of a wave under Unai Emery, but have sold two of their most influential stars in Youri Tielemans and Morgan Rogers. Villa are expected to challenge for the top four, along with Manchester United.
Enzo Maresca had a tough first test since becoming Pep Guardiola's successor.
Michael Carrick faces the challenge of Champions League football, which could expose a squad lacking the quality and depth required. United may emerge triumphant in one of the domestic cup competitions.
Tottenham have spent big and now have a capable manager, but the pressure to succeed will be unrelenting.
Surprise Packages and Relegation Battles
Having survived relegation and reached the FA Cup semi finals last season, Leeds appear to be on the cusp of establishing themselves. Daniel Farke has been lavished with some new signings, including future England goalkeeper James Trafford, so Leeds could be the surprise package and challenge for a place in Europe.
Brentford will continue to punch above their weight, while Everton must fancy their own chances of doing better than most people expect.
Michael Carrick needs to strengthen his squad.
When it comes to relegation, it is difficult to look past newcomers Hull City and Ipswich Town. Fulham could also be in trouble. It is time for the London club to go through the painful realisation of what a great job Marco Silva did at Craven Cottage. His replacement, Alvaro Arbeloa, lasted a few months at Real Madrid and has no experience of managing in the Premier League. He also has to deal with the loss of Harry Wilson and Raul Jimenez. New additions have been made, but it is hard to see where Fulham will get the goals from to win games.
Golden Boot and Player of the Season Predictions
When it comes to the Golden Boot, look no further than Erling Haaland. Scoring goals is what he does better than anyone on the planet.
Martin Odegaard appears rejuvenated and could well go on to become player of the season, but will face stiff competition from the likes of Bruno Fernandes, Bukayo Saka and perhaps Rogers at Chelsea.
Max Dowman has the footballing world at his talented feet, and if he gets more game time, should become the breakout star.
Paris Saint-Germain will take some dethroning as European champions, but Arsenal have it in them to reach club football's Holy Grail.
Jeremy Cross' predicted Premier League 2026/27 final table: 1. Arsenal, 2. Chelsea, 3. Liverpool, 4. Manchester City, 5. Aston Villa, 6. Tottenham, 7. Manchester United, 8. Brentford, 9. Everton, 10. Leeds, 11. Brighton, 12. Bournemouth, 13. Newcastle, 14. Crystal Palace, 15. Sunderland, 16. Coventry, 17. Nottingham Forest, 18. Fulham, 19. Ipswich, 20. Hull City.
