Premier League 2026-27 form guide: Title race, prediction, players to watch

What the report says

Al Jazeera published a Premier League 2026-27 season guide on August 19, 2026, assessing the clubs most likely to influence the title race and highlighting players to watch. The piece says Arsenal begin the campaign as defending champions after ending a long title drought, and that they have strengthened by adding Bruno Guimaraes and Christos Tzolis while keeping a core built around Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard, Bukayo Saka and William Saliba. Al Jazeera’s outlook is that Arsenal have enough balance to challenge for another championship if they can cope with the pressure of being targeted as champions.

Manchester City are presented as the main challenger, but also as a team entering a major transition after Pep Guardiola’s departure and Rodri’s move to Barcelona. The article says new manager Enzo Maresca faces the challenge of replacing Rodri’s influence in midfield, even as Erling Haaland remains the club’s standout attacking threat. City’s other notable changes include the arrival of Elliot Anderson, with more possible recruitment mentioned as the club reshapes its squad.

Chelsea are described as another possible contender after a difficult previous season, with the club now under Xabi Alonso and having invested heavily again. The guide also notes a resurgent Manchester United and Liverpool beginning a new era under a fresh coach after a disappointing title defence. Overall, the article frames the season as one shaped by managerial changes, squad rebuilds and whether Arsenal can handle the expectations that come with being champions.