Premier League 2026-27 preview No 1: Arsenal
Arsenal begin the 2026-27 Premier League season as reigning champions, having ended a 22-year title wait last term despite losing the Champions League final on penalties. The Guardian's writers again tip them for top spot, with manager Mikel Arteta having deepened an already strong squad, though no side has retained the English title since Arsenal themselves did so in 1935, underlining how difficult the task ahead is.
The club has strengthened its midfield by signing Bruno Guimarães from Newcastle to ease Declan Rice's workload, and added Greece forward Christos Tzolis, though a move for Vinícius Júnior fell through as he stayed at Real Madrid. A back injury to William Saliba is a major concern for a defence that conceded 27 goals last season, with Ezri Konsa a possible signing from Aston Villa. Off the pitch, owner Stan Kroenke continues heavy investment, including a possible £500m expansion of the Emirates Stadium towards 70,000 capacity, while sponsorship has shifted from Visit Rwanda to HR firm Deel.
- Arsenal are Guardian writers' pick to retain the Premier League title
- Signed Bruno Guimarães and Christos Tzolis; missed out on Vinícius Júnior
- William Saliba's back injury is a major defensive worry ahead of the season
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Arsenal go into the 2026-27 season as Premier League champions, having won their first title in 22 years last season, though they lost the Champions League final on penalties. Manager Mikel Arteta has added to the squad in an attempt to defend the title, a feat no club has managed since Arsenal last did it in 1935.
Key changes include the signing of midfielder Bruno Guimarães from Newcastle, intended to share the load with Declan Rice, and forward Christos Tzolis, while a deal for Vinícius Júnior did not materialise. Defender William Saliba's back injury is a concern given the team's defensive record last season, and Aston Villa's Ezri Konsa has been mentioned as a potential signing.
Beyond the pitch, owner Stan Kroenke is investing heavily in the club, including a possible expansion of the Emirates Stadium, and the team's shirt sponsor has changed from Visit Rwanda to the firm Deel.