Paul Merson’s newest column offers a comprehensive preview of the 2026/27 Premier League campaign, examining both the clubs that could lift the trophy and those fighting to avoid the drop. The season officially begins on Friday, when reigning champions Arsenal welcome newly promoted Coventry City, and Sky Sports will broadcast six matches over the opening weekend.

Merson outlines his six favorite teams, evaluates the relegation candidates, and highlights a single underdog that could surprise the established elite. Throughout his analysis he peppers the piece with observations on individual players, tactical nuances, and transfer market speculation. He opens with an unequivocal endorsement of Arsenal, insisting that no side appears capable of halting the Gunners’ march.

In his view, Arsenal will cruise to the title with a comfortable margin. While he acknowledges a few minor frailties that could be exposed in the Champions League, he likens Arsenal’s domestic dominance to Manchester City’s early reign, noting the depth of talent across every position.

Defenders William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães are described as "unbelievable," yet Merson points out that the arrival of Cristian Mosquera would make Saliba’s occasional absence almost invisible. He also mentions that Jurrien Timber’s injury leaves a gap that Ben White can fill, keeping opponents like Jeremy Doku in check.

Merson reminisces about the Community Shield match in Cardiff, where Arsenal overcame Manchester City. He recalls moments when substitutes such as Viktor Gyökerés and Eberechi Eze entered the fray, underscoring the squad’s depth. He praises Christos Tzolis for his disciplined wing play, comparing him to a "Ronseal" product that does exactly what is asked of him, staying wide, maintaining his position, and preventing the opposition full‑back from advancing. Looking ahead, Merson predicts Arsenal will make a significant signing before the transfer window closes, perhaps targeting a player of Vinícius Júnior’s calibre.

He argues that the market is ripe for a marquee acquisition that could further cement Arsenal’s superiority. He concludes that, at present, the only team capable of challenging Arsenal is Arsenal itself. Turning to Liverpool, Merson stresses the need for consistency. He notes that last season’s erratic performances prevented Liverpool from mounting a serious title challenge.

He doubts Liverpool possess the squad depth to match Arsenal’s, emphasizing that key players must stay fit and feature in 36‑37 league games. The absence of a true replacement for Mohamed Salah is highlighted as a glaring deficiency; despite Salah’s reduced output last season, his mere presence still posed a threat, and manager Andoni Iraola must find a suitable successor. Merson also comments on Liverpool’s midfield, expressing optimism about Florian Wirtz’s development after a full season of adaptation to English football.

However, he cautions that if Wirtz fails to make an impact, concerns will mount. He mentions Alexander Isak’s injury‑plagued previous campaign, suggesting that Isak may need additional time to regain form. Chelsea receives a more measured appraisal.

Merson points out the advantage of playing only once a week, which could allow the team to focus on domestic fixtures. He sets a realistic target of a top‑five finish, warning against premature ambition. He believes Xabi Alonso’s tactical acumen could elevate the side, especially if he integrates Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers as dual No.10s, perhaps employing a back three to accommodate them.

Merson warns of a potential “triangle” of Palmer, Rogers, and João Pedro competing for the same spaces, which could lead to congestion in midfield. Nonetheless, he trusts Alonso’s ability to harmonise the trio, though he doubts Chelsea will reach the 85‑86 point mark that Arsenal is projected to achieve. Regarding Manchester City, Merson is skeptical. He notes that the club’s decision to sell Rodri after the Community Shield signals a shift, and he doubts City can match Arsenal’s consistency over 38 games.

He does acknowledge David Raya’s impressive saves, but overall he sees City falling short in the title race. Spurs and Manchester United occupy the middle ground in Merson’s view. He suggests Tottenham could slip into the top five, labeling them a “dark horse” that will certainly finish above the relegation zone thanks to smart recruitment and the benefit of a once‑a‑week schedule. He praises manager Roberto De Zerbi’s coaching, noting that reduced midweek travel will give his players more time to absorb tactical ideas.

However, Merson points out Tottenham’s historical lack of a dominant midfield, though recent signings may finally address that weakness. Manchester United, on the other hand, is described as vulnerable, especially with European commitments stretching an already thin squad. Merson worries about the impact of a potential Bruno Fernandes injury and questions the value of the Andrey Santos signing, which he feels adds little in terms of defensive solidity, chance creation, or goal scoring.

While he appreciates Youri Tielemans’ quality, he stresses that United need more than two midfield stars to compete for points consistently. The newly promoted clubs—Coventry City, Hull City, and others—are acknowledged as potential spoilers. Merson argues that a strong start is essential for survival; promoted sides rarely finish strongly, so early points are vital. He highlights Coventry’s early fixtures against Arsenal and Manchester City as a chance to test themselves, while a victory over Hull could provide a morale boost.

Finally, Merson touches on the other lower‑mid table teams. Brentford, despite losing Jordan Henderson, could still challenge for European spots, especially after an impressive pre‑season win over Eintracht Frankfurt. Brighton, Bournemouth, and Newcastle are also mentioned as clubs capable of upsetting the established order, though injuries and squad depth remain concerns. In summary, Merson’s forecast paints Arsenal as the clear favorites, Liverpool as the only realistic challenger if they can stay healthy, Chelsea as a strong top‑five contender, and Tottenham as a possible dark horse.

Manchester City, Manchester United, and the newly promoted sides face varying degrees of difficulty, with the battle for survival likely to be decided by early results and squad resilience throughout the grueling 38‑match campaign.