McNulty forecasts Arsenal title retention amid Premier League managerial upheaval
With nine new managers appointed across the top flight, Phil McNulty identifies Arsenal as favourites to retain the crown while highlighting transitional challenges for Manchester City and Liverpool.
BBC chief football writer Phil McNulty has released his annual predictions for the 2026-27 Premier League season, forecasting Arsenal as the team best positioned to retain the title. Writing on 19 August 2026, McNulty argues that Mikel Arteta’s side possesses the quality and confidence to succeed, citing the impactful performances of new signings Bruno Guimaraes and Christos Tzolis in the Community Shield victory over Manchester City.
The analysis highlights a period of significant transition at Manchester City, where Enzo Maresca has succeeded Pep Guardiola. McNulty notes that the departure of key figures such as Rodri, Bernardo Silva, and John Stones creates a challenging environment, yet expects the club to remain competitive for silverware due to the presence of Erling Haaland and recent acquisitions including Elliot Anderson.
Liverpool faces a restructuring under new manager Andoni Iraola, who replaces Arne Slot following the club’s previous title defence failure. McNulty predicts a top-four finish for the club as it navigates the post-Mohamed Salah era, suggesting that potential signings such as Florian Wirtz and Bradley Barcola could bolster a squad that retains considerable quality despite the managerial change.
Elsewhere in the league, McNulty anticipates strong performances from Chelsea under Xabi Alonso and Manchester United under Michael Carrick. He suggests Chelsea’s lack of European distractions could aid their Premier League campaign, while Manchester United are expected to secure a Champions League place and compete for trophies under Carrick’s leadership, supported by smart signings such as Youri Tielemans.
The report also details extensive managerial changes across the remaining clubs, including Roberto de Zerbi at Tottenham Hotspur, Oliver Glasner at Nottingham Forest, and Matthias Jaissle at Newcastle United. McNulty assesses the prospects of promoted sides Coventry City, Ipswich Town, and Hull City, suggesting their ambition may allow them to defy expectations despite the inherent difficulties of survival in the top flight.
