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Premier League Pre-Season: Winners and Losers Ahead of 2026-27 Kickoff

The upcoming Premier League season starts this Friday, with Arsenal defending their title against newly promoted Coventry City at the Emirates. Arsenal’s strong position contrasts with many rivals undergoing managerial changes, including last season’s runners-up Manchester City, who replaced Pep Guardiola with Enzo Maresca and face challenges ahead.

Meanwhile, Xabi Alonso surprisingly joined Chelsea instead of Liverpool, as the Reds appointed Andoni Iraola after Alonso had committed elsewhere. With the new campaign almost here, it’s clear some teams and players are better prepared than others. Here’s a look at the key winners and losers from pre-season action.

Winner: Christos Tzolis

Tzolis struggled at Norwich but has impressed since joining Arsenal. The Greek winger scored in his first friendly, earned a penalty against Borussia Dortmund, converted the winning spot-kick versus Como, and assisted twice in the Community Shield victory over Manchester City. His performances offer hope as Arsenal consider moving on Gabriel Martinelli, showing that second chances can pay off.

Loser: Manchester City’s Transition

Maresca’s debut ended in a harsh 3-0 loss to Arsenal. Despite Erling Haaland's return being cut short, City’s midfield showed weaknesses, notably from Mateo Kovacic and Elliot Anderson. With Rodri heading to Barcelona, the midfield requires urgent strengthening. New signings Ayyoub Bouaddi and Enzo Fernandez might take time to adapt, meaning City's early-season results could suffer.

Winner: Joao Pedro

After missing out on Brazil’s World Cup squad, Joao Pedro responded well for Chelsea, scoring seven times in pre-season. The 24-year-old looks ready to beat his previous best of 20 goals in all competitions. While Haaland remains the favorite for the Golden Boot, Joao Pedro’s form is a warning to the rest of the league.

Loser: Liverpool’s Lack of Depth

Liverpool made few signings after Arne Slot’s successful first season. New manager Andoni Iraola inherited a squad low on depth, especially in defense and midfield. Pre-season exposed this issue, with two late collapses against Leeds and Monaco. Although new arrivals like Jeremy Jacquet and Ronald Araujo showed promise, more reinforcements are needed. Iraola admits many players aren’t fit enough to sustain his pressing style, so Liverpool’s bench remains a major concern.

Winner: Ifeanyi Ndukwe

The young defender had unexpected game time due to injuries and impressed during pre-season. Although he cannot play competitively this year because of work permit issues, his displays have attracted loan offers. This suggests Liverpool may find a beneficial arrangement for his development.

Loser: Newcastle’s Tumultuous Pre-Season

Newcastle faced chaos as Eddie Howe resigned just weeks before the new season. Matthias Jaissle took over, but the team is far from ready, having suffered heavy defeats including 4-1 to Bristol City and 3-1 to Everton. Key players like Bruno Guimaraes and Anthony Gordon left, leaving gaps Jaissle must fill quickly. Adapting new signings will take time, so Newcastle look set for a tough start.

Winner: JJ Gabriel

The 15-year-old forward became the youngest player to feature for Manchester United in an unofficial match, appearing in a friendly win over Atletico Madrid. Though only playing briefly, his talent is evident, and manager Michael Carrick has called for patience as Gabriel awaits his senior competitive debut.

Loser: Michael Carrick’s Squad Challenges

Despite promising youth like Shea Lacey, Manchester United lacks the experienced quality needed for consistent success. Their 4-2 defeat to AC Milan highlighted this, exposing holes Carrick still needs to address. The former midfielder acknowledges the need for reinforcements to compete effectively, especially in European competitions.

Winner: Brian Madjo

Aston Villa fought hard to register 17-year-old Brian Madjo after FIFA initially blocked him due to international transfer rules. Once eligible, Madjo scored twice in his first appearance and impressed with a spectacular goal against Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Super Cup. Villa’s captain John McGinn praised his potential, suggesting Madjo could eliminate the need for another striker this season.

Loser: Eli Junior Kroupi

Bournemouth’s young French forward suffered a foot injury requiring surgery during pre-season, delaying what looked like a breakout campaign. Kroupi scored five times in Bournemouth’s final five games last season and was linked with Liverpool. His absence until October denies him a chance to build on his momentum and stops any summer transfer moves.

Summary of Pre-Season Winners and Losers

  • Winners:
  • Christos Tzolis (Arsenal)
  • Joao Pedro (Chelsea)
  • Ifeanyi Ndukwe (Liverpool)
  • JJ Gabriel (Manchester United)
  • Brian Madjo (Aston Villa)
  • Manchester City’s rebuild under Maresca
  • Liverpool’s depth concerns
  • Newcastle’s managerial upheaval and squad issues
  • Michael Carrick’s squad quality problems at Manchester United
  • Eli Junior Kroupi’s injury setback

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