Paul Merson’s newest column offers a comprehensive preview of the 2026/27 Premier League campaign, examining both the clubs poised to challenge for the championship and those fighting to avoid the drop. The season kicks off on Friday, with the defending champions Arsenal hosting newly promoted Coventry City, and Sky Sports broadcasting six matches over the opening weekend. Merson outlines his six favourite teams, evaluates the relegation candidates, and highlights a surprise package that could upset the established order.
He begins by expressing absolute confidence in Arsenal’s title credentials, stating that he can’t envision any side stopping them. In his view, Arsenal will clinch the league comfortably, showing no discernible weakness in domestic competition. While he concedes they have a few flaws that could be exposed in the Champions League, their Premier League form reminds him of Manchester City’s early dominance, with quality players available for every position. He praises the defensive partnership of William Saliba and Gabriel, noting that the emergence of Cristhian Mosquera means Saliba’s occasional absence would go largely unnoticed.
Even with Jurrien Timber sidelined, Ben White steps in and neutralises threats such as Jeremy Doku. Merson also lauds the work ethic of Christos Tzolis, likening him to a "Ronseal" product that does exactly what is required, constantly tracking back on the left flank and preventing the opposition full‑back from getting ahead. Looking ahead, Merson predicts Arsenal will make a significant signing before the transfer window closes, perhaps targeting a player of Vinicius Junior’s calibre, to ensure they stay ahead of rivals.
He believes no other club currently possesses the depth or consistency to dethrone the Gunners, and that the only team capable of challenging them would be Arsenal itself. Turning to Liverpool, Merson stresses that consistency is the key to any title challenge.
He points out that last season’s erratic performances left them far behind. Their squad lacks the depth of Arsenal, meaning the first‑choice eleven must stay fit and feature in the majority of the 38 league games.
The absence of a proper replacement for Mohamed Salah has left a goal‑scoring void, and while Andoni Iraola’s side have talent, they need a new forward to fill the gap. Merson also mentions Florian Wirtz, expecting him to have a breakthrough season after a period of adaptation, whereas Alexander Isak’s injury‑plagued campaign last term may limit his impact.
Chelsea, according to Merson, benefit from a once‑a‑week schedule, which affords them more recovery time than clubs juggling European commitments. Their objective should be a top‑five finish, but he cautions against over‑ambition. He believes Xabi Alonso must find a way to integrate Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers as dual No 10s, perhaps by employing a back‑three formation. However, he warns that a congested midfield triangle involving Palmer, Rogers and João Pedro could become a tactical nightmare unless Alonso can harmonise their movements.
Merson is less optimistic about Manchester City’s prospects. He notes that the only major change after the Community Shield was the sale of Rodri, and he doubts City can match Arsenal’s consistency over a full season. While David Raya’s performance in the Shield was a bright spot, Merson doubts City can sustain the points required to stay in contention for the title. Regarding Tottenham, Merson sees them as dark‑horse candidates for a top‑five spot.
Their recent recruitment has strengthened the squad, and manager Roberto De Zerbi’s tactical acumen could help them maximise the advantage of a lighter fixture list. Historically, Spurs have lacked a dominant midfielder, but recent signings could finally give them that creative spark. Merson also highlights the irony that Tottenham, who flirted with relegation last season, now sit in a position to challenge for a European place, while Aston Villa, who once threatened their survival, may struggle to keep pace.
Manchester United, on the other hand, face a precarious situation. Their squad is thin, especially if Bruno Fernandes suffers an injury. While Youri Tielemans adds quality, Merson questions the value of the Andrey Santos signing, describing him as a player who neither breaks up play nor creates chances. United’s defence remains prone to lapses, and their attack oscillates between brilliance and mediocracy.
The club’s ability to navigate a congested schedule, particularly with European commitments, will be a decisive factor. The newly promoted trio—Coventry City, Hull City and another side—must start strongly to secure survival. Merson points out that Coventry’s early fixtures against Arsenal and Manchester City could be brutal, but a win over Hull would provide a vital morale boost. He also mentions Brentford and Brighton as clubs capable of upsetting the established order, especially after impressive pre‑season displays such as Brentford’s 7‑0 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt.
In summary, Merson’s forecast paints Arsenal as the overwhelming favourites, Liverpool as potential challengers if they can stay healthy, Chelsea as a solid top‑five contender, Tottenham as a surprise package, and Manchester City as a likely runner‑up. The relegation battle will hinge on early points accumulation, with the promoted sides needing to avoid prolonged slumps. The season promises excitement, tactical battles, and the ever‑present drama of the Premier League’s relentless competition.