Metro Sport's writers have shared their boldest predictions for the 2026-27 Premier League season, which begins after a 32-day summer break following Spain's World Cup victory. Arsenal, who won their first league title in 22 years last season under Mikel Arteta, start their title defence against newly-promoted Coventry City. Nine clubs changed their manager over the summer, setting the stage for an unpredictable campaign.
Chelsea tipped to win the Premier League
Live Sports Editor Tony Mogan predicts Chelsea will win the league. He notes that the last time Chelsea finished 10th in the Premier League, they won the title the following season. Under Xabi Alonso, who guided Bayer Leverkusen to Bundesliga glory in his first full season after taking over with the club in the relegation zone, Chelsea could replicate that transformation. With no European football, Cole Palmer could benefit after his injury troubles, and the return of Levi Colwill from an ACL injury could stabilise the defence. Mogan's top four: Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester City, Manchester United. His relegated teams: Coventry, Ipswich, Hull.
Manchester City to miss Champions League?
Sports reporter Callum McAvoy suggests Manchester City could fail to qualify for the Champions League for the first time since 2010. City have lost manager Pep Guardiola, captain Bernardo Silva, midfielder Rodri, and defender John Stones. New manager Enzo Maresca's teams at Chelsea and Leicester City started well but declined around Christmas, and the Community Shield humiliation showed work is needed. McAvoy's top four: Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham, Manchester United. His relegated teams: Hull, Fulham, Ipswich.
Crystal Palace at risk of relegation
Deputy Sports Editor Louis Sealey predicts Crystal Palace will be relegated despite recent success, including an FA Cup, Community Shield, and Conference League trophy. They finished just six points above the drop zone last season. Manager Oliver Glasner left for Nottingham Forest, and replacement Pierre Sage has managed fewer than 100 professional matches. Key defenders Maxence Lacroix and Marc Guehi have departed, and Daniel Munoz is a target for Saudi Arabian clubs. Only two teams scored fewer goals than Palace last season. Sealey's top four: Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester City. His relegated teams: Crystal Palace, Ipswich, Hull.
Michael Carrick under pressure at Manchester United
Sports reporter Ben Fleming predicts Michael Carrick could be replaced by Eddie Howe by New Year's Day. Carrick earned the permanent job after picking up more league points than any other side since his arrival in mid-January, but his squad lacks depth in defence and midfield. Benjamin Sesko did not feature in pre-season, and tough games away at Liverpool, Newcastle and Arsenal await over the festive period. Fleming's top four: Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City, Tottenham. His relegated teams: Coventry, Ipswich, Hull.
Coventry to survive, Fulham to go down
Assistant Sports Editor Gavin Brown backs Coventry to stay up under Frank Lampard, who bought well after winning the Championship title. He tips Fulham for relegation under new manager Alvaro Arbeloa, noting that Marco Silva was a huge part of the club's success. Brown's top four: Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester City. His relegated teams: Fulham, Ipswich, Hull.
Bournemouth relegated and Marco Rose first to be sacked
Assistant Sports Editor Tom Olver predicts Bournemouth will be relegated and manager Marco Rose will be the first to be sacked. Rose replaced Andoni Iraola, who secured European football, but the squad may struggle with extra workload. Bournemouth face City, Liverpool, Chelsea and United in their opening eight fixtures. Olver's top four: Arsenal, Manchester United, Manchester City, Aston Villa. His relegated teams: Bournemouth, Hull, Ipswich.
