EPL 2025/26 kicks off: Liverpool target back-to-back titles as rivals plot shake-up

The long wait is over. The 2025/26 English Premier League (EPL) season gets underway tonight, with defending champions Liverpool hosting Bournemouth in the curtain-raiser — a fixture expected to blend all the usual fanfare with fierce competition and high expectations.

After claiming their 20th league crown under new manager Arne Slot last season, Liverpool face the daunting challenge of defending their title. Slot’s debut campaign was aided by underwhelming competition, but this year promises to be different.

The Reds have strengthened significantly, securing four major signings — including German prodigy Florian Wirtz for a club-record fee — while also chasing Alexander Isak to lead their attack.

However, the absence of Trent Alexander-Arnold, coupled with the advancing years of talisman Mohamed Salah and captain Virgil van Dijk, will test Liverpool’s resilience as they seek to cement themselves as favourites and end Manchester City’s era of dominance.

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City’s Response

After four consecutive EPL titles, Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City looked off-colour last season, struggling whenever midfield lynchpin Rodri was absent despite Erling Haaland’s prolific scoring.

Reinforcements have arrived, and the Cityzens are expected to mount another title charge, though they will hope to avoid a repeat of last season’s mid-campaign collapse.

Arsenal’s Ambitions

At Arsenal, Mikel Arteta has addressed a long-standing striker shortage with the signing of Swedish forward Victor Gyokeres, part of a well-planned summer recruitment drive.

While the Gunners have been consistent contenders, the coming season will test whether Arteta can finally lift the EPL trophy and shed the label of Guardiola’s apprentice.

Chelsea’s Rise Under Maresca

Chelsea, under Enzo Maresca — another Guardiola protégé — are tipped for a serious title push after their unexpected Club World Cup triumph. The Blues now boast a dynamic midfield and attack, powered by exciting talents Estevao and Joao Pedro.

Defensive uncertainties remain, but their overhauled squad looks ready to challenge Liverpool and City.

United’s Gamble on Amorim

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Manchester United have stuck with Ruben Amorim despite last season’s worst-ever EPL finish. Their revamped attack now features Mathias Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko, Europe’s top-scoring under-23 striker. Yet, questions persist over their defensive solidity and midfield depth.

Other Contenders and Dark Horses

Newcastle United face a difficult campaign, especially if Isak departs, potentially stalling their recent progress. Tottenham Hotspur, led by Thomas Frank, will aim to build on last season’s European success. Wolves are tipped as a potential surprise package.

The Relegation Battle

Recent history has seen newly promoted sides tumble straight back to the Championship, and many expect the pattern to continue. Sunderland and Leeds United are among the favourites for the drop, alongside one of Burnley, Everton, or Brentford.

The battle begins tonight at Anfield — and with strengthened squads, renewed rivalries, and big-money signings, the 2025/26 EPL season promises drama from the first whistle to the last.