Premier League Pre-Season: Winners and Losers Ahead of 2026-27 Kickoff
The new Premier League season starts this Friday, with Arsenal defending their title at home against Coventry City. Despite friendlies often misleading, some clubs have shown clear signs of strength or weakness heading into the campaign.
Winner: Christos Tzolis (Arsenal)
After a disappointing spell at Norwich City, Christos Tzolis has impressed in pre-season for Arsenal. The 24-year-old Greece international scored in friendlies, won penalties, and assisted goals, including a notable performance in the Community Shield win over Manchester City. His form offers hope to Arsenal fans after missing out on Vinicius Junior and suggests he could be a key player this season.
Loser: Manchester City's Transition
Manchester City had a rough start under new manager Enzo Maresca, losing 3-0 to Arsenal in his first competitive game. Though Erling Haaland returned from the World Cup, the midfield struggled, with Mateo Kovacic and new signing Elliot Anderson underperforming. With key players like Rodri leaving, City's rebuilding process looks challenging, and newcomers like Ayyoub Bouaddi and Enzo Fernandez may need time to settle.
Winner: Joao Pedro (Chelsea)
Despite missing out on Brazil's World Cup squad, Joao Pedro has bounced back strongly. Chelsea’s Player of the Season scored seven goals in pre-season and appears ready to surpass last year's 20-goal tally. His sharp form is encouraging under Xabi Alonso's management, putting him among early contenders for the Golden Boot.
Loser: Liverpool's Thin Squad Depth
Liverpool made minimal transfer moves after Andoni Iraola replaced Arne Slot. This lack of reinforcements, especially in defense and midfield, was exposed during pre-season losses where they squandered leads. While new loan signing Ronald Araujo and Jeremy Jacquet showed promise, the squad’s bench remains worryingly light. Iraola admits many players aren't yet fit enough for his intense style, making further signings critical.
Winner: Ifeanyi Ndukwe (Liverpool)
The young defender Ifeanyi Ndukwe took advantage of Liverpool's defensive shortages during pre-season, impressing in friendlies despite being too young for competitive matches due to work permit issues. His performances have attracted loan interest, offering him valuable playing time away from Anfield.
Loser: Newcastle United’s Difficult Summer
Newcastle United have faced turmoil, with manager Eddie Howe resigning just weeks before the season. Matthias Jaissle stepped in but warned that the squad is far from ready, needing reinforcements after selling key players like Bruno Guimaraes and Anthony Gordon. Recent friendly defeats signal a tough start for the Magpies.
Winner: JJ Gabriel (Manchester United)
At just 15, JJ Gabriel became the youngest player to appear for Manchester United in an unofficial match. Although he only played briefly against Atletico Madrid, the club sees him as a major talent and expects to integrate him more this season.
Loser: Michael Carrick’s Challenge at Manchester United
Former midfielder Michael Carrick faces pressure to improve a squad lacking depth. United’s 4-2 friendly loss to AC Milan highlighted shortcomings ahead of Champions League action. Carrick acknowledges the need for new signings but also wants to maximize current resources while pushing for success.
Winner: Brian Madjo (Aston Villa)
Brian Madjo, despite initial registration hurdles, burst onto the scene for Aston Villa with multiple goals in friendlies and a standout performance against Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Super Cup. The 17-year-old striker looks ready to take on Premier League challenges without Villa needing to recruit more forwards.
Loser: Eli Junior Kroupi (Bournemouth)
The promising French forward Eli Junior Kroupi suffered a serious foot injury during pre-season training requiring surgery. After scoring five times in Bournemouth’s final Premier League games last season, he was tipped for a big move but will now be sidelined until at least October, halting his momentum.
