The 2025/26 Premier League season kicks off today, and the excitement is already in the air. 

While all 20 clubs will start the campaign with dreams of success, a few sides stand out as genuine title contenders either because of their squad strength, recent signings, or the stability of their managers. 

Others, however, may need more than just hope to challenge at the very top.

Arsenal – Mikel Arteta

Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal are no longer the “nearly men” of the league. The Gunners have built a side packed with balance, young talent like Bukayo Saka and William Saliba, experienced heads like Declan Rice, and the summer addition of Gyokeres to address last season’s scoring inconsistencies. T

The club also strengthened its midfield depth, meaning they can now rotate without dropping quality. If they stay injury-free, Arsenal are firmly in the title conversation.

Liverpool – Arne Slot

Liverpool’s reign at the top will be tested, but Jürgen Klopp’s side knows what it takes to win. The defending champions kept their core intact and added smart signings, including a young centre-back to cover defensive gaps and a versatile midfielder to add energy. 

Their attacking trio remains lethal, and if they keep their defensive discipline, Liverpool could be the first side since Manchester City to defend the Premier League crown.

Chelsea – Enzo Maresca

Chelsea have quietly built one of the most balanced squads in the league. The Blues addressed last season’s inconsistency by bringing in an experienced defensive leader, a creative midfielder, and a clinical forward. 

With a fully fit squad and a manager who has had time to implement his philosophy, Chelsea look well-prepared to mount a serious title challenge for the first time in years.

Manchester City 

Pep Guardiola’s City remain the measuring stick for every other team. Even after losing a couple of key players, they have refreshed their squad with top-level signings in midfield and attack. 

The defending treble winners still boast Erling Haaland’s goals, Kevin De Bruyne’s creativity, and a backline that can smother any attack. Until someone knocks them off, City are the favourites.

Honourable Mentions

Crystal Palace – They may not be traditional title contenders, but Palace have a squad capable of breaking into the top six. Their summer signings added speed and technical quality to their attack, and if their defence holds up, they could shock bigger sides.

Aston Villa – Unai Emery’s men have quietly built one of the strongest midfields in the league. With European experience from last season and a few attacking reinforcements, Villa could have an outside shot at making a title push — or at least disrupting the usual top four.

Are they ready? – Manchester United

Despite their massive fan base and history, Manchester United head into the season with more questions than answers. Their pre-season was marked by injuries, inconsistent performances, and uncertainty over their defensive setup. Key signings have yet to prove themselves, and without a solid start, United could quickly find themselves chasing the pack rather than leading it.