Liverpool kicks off their EPL title defence on Friday evening
Amid glossy graphics, record transfers and statistics overload, ever-thirsty fans will welcome the English Premier League (EPL) 2025/2026 season tonight when Liverpool host Bournemouth. Amid the expected razzmatazz, TheCable previews expectations for the new season in which the old order is expected to be restored.
Liverpool, defending champions, have a huge task to defend their title. Arne Slot won the Reds’ 20th title in his first season, and amid poor competition. Despite losing Trent Alexander-Arnold, and with both Mohammed Salah and Virgil van Dijk entering their twilight years, four key signings have arrived, including Florian Wirtz for a record fee. Two defenders and Alexander Isak’s expected capture make Liverpool title favourites, and end Manchester City’s dominance.
Pep Guardiola’s Man City have lost their spark after four consecutive EPL titles, and their performance dipped in the absence of Rodri, despite Erling Haaland’s goals. More money has been splashed, the Cityzens are expected to mount a title challenge, and will hope it does not fall apart as quickly as last season.
Arsenal, on the other hand, are presumably ready for another title challenge following a busy summer that saw Victor Gyokores join other shrewd signings. The Swede’s capture addressed Mikel Arteta’s striker headache, and it remains to be seen if the Spanish coach will get his much-anticipated EPL title to prove his status as an elite coach, not Guardiola’s apprentice.
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Chelsea, coached by Enzo Maresca, another Guardiola protege, are, however, poised to mount a serious EPL title challenge following their surprise Club World Cup exploit. After over 50 signings, the team finally has a world-class midfield and attack, bolstered by the electric duo of Estevao and Joao Pedro. The Blues are poised to breathe down the necks of Liverpool and City in the chase for the title, despite their uncertainties in defence.
Elsewhere, Manchester United kept faith with Ruben Amorim despite suffering their worst EPL finish last season, signed Mathias Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo- two proven EPL scorers, and Benjamin Sesko, the highest scoring under-23 player in Europe, to bolster their goals-shy attack. However, uncertainties in defence and midfield could impact the Red Devils’ transition process.
Newcastle United have had a woeful summer, and if Isak leaves, the Magpies’ rising profile could stall, while eyes would also be on Thomas Frank to improve Tottenham’s league performance following their European exploit last season.
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Promoted teams have been relegated back to the Championship in the past two seasons, and more of the same is expected.
PREDICTIONS
Champions – Liverpool
Top Four – Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester City, Arsenal
Relegation – Sunderland, Leeds United, Burnley/Everton/ Brentford
Player of the year: Cole Palmer
Golden Boot: Victor Gyokeres/Erling Haaland
Breakout Stars of the season: Estevao Willian/Ethan Nwaneri/Connor Bradley
Best Manager: Enzo Maresca
Surprise package: Wolves
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