The Premier League returns on 21 August 2026 with a new champion to chase and one of the biggest managerial reshuffles in recent memory. Here's everything you need to know before the 2026/27 season kicks off.

Defending champions: Arsenal

Arsenal enter 2026/27 as reigning champions and early title favourites after finally getting over the line in 2025/26. They'll aim to become the first side to retain the title since Manchester City's recent dominance — and the bookmakers make them the team to beat.

A managerial merry-go-round

The summer of 2026 reshaped the dugouts across the league. The headline: Pep Guardiola has left Manchester City, ending an era and opening up the title picture. Elsewhere:

• Chelsea — Xabi Alonso takes charge of a continued rebuild.
• Liverpool — Andoni Iraola begins a new chapter at Anfield.
• Crystal Palace — Pierre Sage appointed.
• Bournemouth — Marco Rose appointed.
• Ipswich Town — Gary O'Neil leads the promoted side.

The title race

Arsenal start as favourites, but with City entering a post-Guardiola era and Chelsea and Liverpool under new management, 2026/27 is shaping up as one of the most open title races in years. Expect the usual contenders to be pushed by ambitious, big-spending rivals.

Storylines to watch

• Can Arsenal back up their title with a serious push to retain it?
• How does Manchester City respond to life after Guardiola?
• Will Liverpool and Chelsea's new managers gel quickly with reshaped squads?
• Which of the promoted clubs — Coventry, Ipswich or Hull — can beat the drop?

For dates and the opening weekend, see our Premier League 2026/27 fixtures and key dates, and follow every twist of the season in our Premier League highlights.