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Premier League Pre-Season: Winners and Losers Ahead of the 2026-27 Season

The 2026-27 Premier League season is almost here, with Arsenal set to begin their title defense against newly promoted Coventry City. Arsenal are favorites again, especially as many rivals adjust to new managers, including Manchester City, who have replaced Pep Guardiola with Enzo Maresca. Meanwhile, Xabi Alonso surprised many by joining Chelsea instead of Liverpool, who appointed Andoni Iraola.

With the season starting soon, here’s a look at which clubs and players have emerged strong or exposed during pre-season.

Winner: Christos Tzolis

After a disappointing spell at Norwich City, Christos Tzolis has shown a much-improved side since joining Arsenal. He scored in friendlies against Girona, won a penalty versus Borussia Dortmund, and converted the deciding penalty against Como. His two assists in the Community Shield win over Manchester City also impressed. While he can’t fully replace the missed Vinicius Junior, Tzolis’s form suggests he could seize this second chance in the Premier League.

Loser: Manchester City’s Rebuild

Man City endured a tough start under new boss Enzo Maresca with a 3-0 loss to Arsenal in the Community Shield. Despite a strong lineup, the team looked vulnerable, highlighting midfield weaknesses after Rodri’s departure to Barcelona. New signings like Ayyoub Bouaddi and Enzo Fernandez might need time to adapt, meaning the early weeks could be difficult for City.

Winner: Joao Pedro

Although omitted from Brazil’s World Cup squad, Chelsea’s Joao Pedro responded well by scoring seven times in pre-season under Xabi Alonso. The 24-year-old looks ready to surpass his previous season’s best of 20 goals, positioning himself as a serious threat for this year’s Golden Boot alongside Erling Haaland.

Loser: Liverpool’s Depth Concerns

Since appointing Andoni Iraola, Liverpool have shown a strong starting eleven but a thin bench. Pre-season exposed their shortage, especially in defense and midfield, with two losses after surrendering two-goal leads. Though Jeremy Jacquet and Ronald Araujo made positive impressions, Iraola admits many players lack fitness for his pressing style. More reinforcements are needed for the Reds to mount a serious challenge.

Winner: Ifeanyi Ndukwe

The young defender has grabbed attention during Liverpool’s friendlies, benefiting from injuries to key players. Although he can’t compete officially this season due to work permit issues, his performances have attracted loan offers, suggesting a promising future.

Loser: Newcastle United

Newcastle faced turmoil with Eddie Howe’s sudden resignation just weeks before the season opener. Matthias Jaissle inherits a young squad weakened by sales of key players like Bruno Guimaraes and Anthony Gordon. The Magpies suffered heavy pre-season defeats and appear far from ready for their opening match against Liverpool.

Winner: JJ Gabriel

At just 15, JJ Gabriel became the youngest player to feature for Manchester United in an unofficial match. Though he only played briefly against Atletico Madrid, manager Michael Carrick praises his talent and expects him to make a senior debut soon.

Loser: Michael Carrick’s Squad Quality

Carrick faces challenges beyond youth prospects, as United showed gaps when losing 4-2 to AC Milan in a friendly. With limited squad depth, competing in the Champions League will be tough. Carrick admits more signings are needed, and how he addresses this will shape both the club’s season and his future.

Winner: Brian Madjo

Aston Villa fought to register 17-year-old Brian Madjo after FIFA initially blocked him due to international transfer rules. Once cleared, Madjo scored twice on his debut and impressed in a UEFA Super Cup match against PSG. Villa might not need another striker if Madjo continues his promising form.

Loser: Eli Junior Kroupi

The French forward made waves last season with Bournemouth, scoring five goals in their final fixtures and helping secure European qualification. Unfortunately, a foot injury requiring surgery in pre-season will sideline Kroupi until at least October, ending hopes for a big summer move and delaying his Premier League impact.

Pre-Season Summary

  • Christos Tzolis (Arsenal): Strong pre-season, showing promise after Norwich struggles.
  • Manchester City: Struggling to rebuild under Enzo Maresca; midfield needs strengthening.
  • Joao Pedro (Chelsea): In great form, potential Golden Boot contender.
  • Liverpool: Depth worries exposed, especially in defense and midfield.
  • Ifeanyi Ndukwe (Liverpool): Impressive friendlies but ineligible for competitive games this season.
  • Newcastle United: Managerial upheaval and squad sales leave them vulnerable.
  • JJ Gabriel (Manchester United): Youngest player to appear unofficially; expected to debut soon.
  • Michael Carrick (Manchester United): Needs more quality signings to compete seriously.
  • Brian Madjo (Aston Villa): Young striker making a quick impact after registration battle.
  • Eli Junior Kroupi (Bournemouth): Injured, sidelined until October, stalling momentum.

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