The Premier League 2026-27 season is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable in years, with Arsenal aiming to defend their crown and Manchester City beginning a new era under Enzo Maresca. Liverpool, Manchester United and Chelsea also believe they have the quality to mount serious title challenges.
BBC Sport asked 28 of its pundits to predict this season’s top four, with Arsenal emerging as overwhelming favourites to retain the title. Mikel Arteta’s side received 25 first-place votes after ending their 22-year wait for the Premier League trophy last season.
Manchester City were tipped to finish second overall despite concerns over life after Pep Guardiola, while Liverpool and Chelsea completed the BBC’s projected top four.
Our prediction, however, is different.
Chelsea are our pick to lift the Premier League trophy.
Xabi Alonso inherits one of the league’s most talented squads and, crucially, a season without European football. That lighter schedule could prove decisive, giving the Spaniard valuable time on the training ground to implement his ideas while rivals juggle demanding continental campaigns.
The additions of experienced figures such as Danny Welbeck and Jordan Henderson provide leadership to one of the Premier League’s youngest squads. Combined with the creativity of Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers and João Pedro, Chelsea possess the attacking quality to challenge anyone.
Manchester City are our choice to finish second.
Although Guardiola’s departure marks the end of an extraordinary era, City still boast elite quality throughout the squad. Erling Haaland remains one of world football’s most prolific goalscorers, while new manager Enzo Maresca inherits a team accustomed to competing for every major honour. Replacing Rodri and other senior departures will not be straightforward, but City’s depth should keep them firmly in the title race.
Defending champions Arsenal complete our top three.
Arteta’s side remain one of the league’s strongest teams and have strengthened again this summer, but history shows retaining the Premier League title is often harder than winning it. Expectations will be significantly higher, and every opponent will raise their level against the champions.
Manchester United round out our top four.
Michael Carrick transformed United after taking charge midway through last season, and there is renewed optimism at Old Trafford. Champions League commitments may prevent them from sustaining a title challenge, but another top-four finish looks well within reach if they continue to build on last season’s progress.
Our predicted top four
- Chelsea 🏆
- Manchester City
- Arsenal
- Manchester United
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