Premier League Teams Ranked by Strength (2025–26 Season)

1. Liverpool

• Why: Defending champions and favorites to retain their title, thanks to smart summer signings like Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong.

• Pundits & betting odds place them at the top.

2. Manchester City

• Why: Despite missing out last season, they’re strong contenders with their deep squad and consistent performance under Guardiola. Betting odds place them close behind Liverpool.

3. Arsenal

• Why: Consistently finishing second recently, bolstered by huge investment (£200M+) in key positions like striker and midfield. Viewed as a top challenger this season.

4. Chelsea

• Why: After winning the Club World Cup and a massive £250M+ spend, they’re seen as dark horses with improved squad depth and European experience.

5. Newcastle United

• Why: Spurs power shifts the traditional top, and Newcastle remains competitive with strong performances and expected European campaign involvement.

6. Aston Villa

• Why: Solid European contenders with squad depth and consistency. Several pundits rank them among the best six this season.

7. Manchester United

• Why: Rebuilding after a poor finish is underway with high-profile signings. Still regarded as outside contenders by pundits, but capable of surprising runs.

8. Tottenham Hotspur

• Why: Fresh under manager Thomas Frank and winner of the Europa League, they're seen as possible dark horses.

9. Brighton & Hove Albion

• Why: Known for consistent performances in Europe qualification spots, they continue to be steady and competitive.

10. West Ham United

• Why: Among the financially rising clubs, West Ham are seen as stabilizing forces, with European ambitions.

Mid-to-Lower Tier Teams

These teams show mixed expectations, generally safe from relegation but unlikely to challenge for the top spots:

11. Newcastle United (already listed at 5)

12. Leeds United – Newly promoted; long-shot to survive.

13. Fulham, Crystal Palace – Mid-table solid, but not title contenders. Palace fielded as Europa League qualifiers.

14. Everton – Value bets to crack top six under Moyes, but no serious title push expected.

15. Nottingham Forest, Bournemouth, Brentford – Solid foundations but moderate expectations.

Relegation-Threatened Teams

16. Sunderland, Burnley, Leeds United – Promoted teams pegged as the likeliest to go down.

17. Southampton – Poor recent seasons and among weakest on paper.

Final Ranking (Top 10):

1. Liverpool

2. Manchester City

3. Arsenal

4. Chelsea

5. Newcastle United

6. Aston Villa

7. Manchester United

8. Tottenham Hotspur

9. Brighton & Hove Albion

10. West Ham United