21 Aug 2026 22:18:33.
Yes, it was against newly promoted Coventry, but such an easy win for Arsenal whose squad depth in quality is very impressive now. Not hard to understand why they are firm favourites to retain the EPL title even at competion's start.

1.) 22 Aug 2026
22 Aug 2026 04:37:48
Jbs, very true, they are deserved favourites to retain the title.
First game for Lamps team in the Premiership. My early observation was that they got caught in the headlights of the occasion, if that makes sense. They have pace up front, and I like the look of the young (24) Ch. Not sure about their midfield, but, as I say, it was the first game.

2.) 22 Aug 2026
22 Aug 2026 08:09:10
Arsenal will start as favourites as they have a very good squad put together over many years with the same manager in charge.

Ed01, who do you think will challenge them? and where do you think we will finish?

Same question to my fellow posters?

{Ed001's Note - I think Arsenal's biggest challenge is Arteta. They have by far the best squad and should have walked the league the last few seasons, but have only managed one title and that was a struggle. If he gives them more freedom, then no one will get near them, everyone else is busy rebuilding. If he doesn't, then it will be tight and they could throw it away to whichever teams builds up a head of steam, similar to Liverpool a couple of seasons ago.

Chelsea could end up pretty much anywhere from 2nd to 10th, I would say. There are so many teams in transition that it makes it really hard to predict with any kind of certainty. I expect you to get UCL qualification though, myself.}

3.) 22 Aug 2026
22 Aug 2026 08:19:53
Thanks ED01, I totally agree with you. I will predict we finish 4th.

{Ed001's Note - very welcome mate. Going to be a very intriguing season this one, with so many new managers.}

4.) 22 Aug 2026
22 Aug 2026 11:04:24
My heart says we will win the premiership and I have backed us at 10/1. My head says Arsenal will retain the title but I also fancy the spuds to finish in the top four.
I'm sorry Ed but I think Liverpool might have a disappointing season along with (I hope) City.

This could all change in the last week of the transfer window.

5.) 23 Aug 2026
23 Aug 2026 09:36:06
I think Arsenal will win the league, but hopefully fall short again in Europe.
I think we will finish in the top 4 with Liverpool and one other.

6.) 23 Aug 2026
23 Aug 2026 12:32:20
I would think 4th a good guess, but want to have a look at us in a few competitive games, plus after we finally know our post window squad before I decide on my season prediction. There seem to be so many sides rebuilding, and it may take many, including us, to integrate another batch of new players.

7.) 23 Aug 2026
23 Aug 2026 20:06:24
I am not going to predict how we will do other than we will do better than last season. I haven't seen any of our pre-season games. I still have some concerns about the squad; not just Sanchez.

Whether or not EF leaves, I think we are lightweight in midfield, relying too much on Moises.
On a separate note, I was very impressed with Sangere: £39 million; looks like a bargain.