The 2025/26 English Premier League season kicks off with a flurry of storylines capturing the attention of football fans worldwide. As the new season unfolds, transfer sagas involving top clubs, the spotlight on Tottenham post-Ange Postecoglou, and an influx of new goal-scoring talents are setting the stage for an exciting campaign.
Manchester United is on a mission to recover from last season’s struggles, while newly promoted teams aim to defy the odds and secure their place in the top flight. Here, we delve into the major talking points ahead of the new season.
Transfer Drama: Alexander Isak’s Saga
The ongoing transfer saga involving Alexander Isak has dominated headlines, with the Newcastle striker keen on a move to Liverpool. The Premier League champions have reportedly offered £110 million (A$229m) for Isak, who netted 23 goals last season, second only to Mohamed Salah.
Liverpool’s aggressive transfer strategy has already seen them spend over $600 million, acquiring talents like Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike. However, the tragic passing of Diogo Jota and the departures of Darwin Nunez and Luis Diaz have left the Reds eager to strengthen their attacking options with Isak’s acquisition.
Despite the interest, Newcastle has been reluctant to sell Isak without securing a suitable replacement, especially after missing out on several transfer targets. The stand-off continues as the September 1 transfer deadline looms, with Isak reportedly on strike and absent from pre-season activities.
“I don’t think it’s been healthy for us,” Newcastle manager Eddie Howe told the BBC. “Alex is one of the best strikers in the world, and missing him leaves a huge gap.”
Newcastle legend Alan Shearer weighed in on the situation, acknowledging the complexity of transfer negotiations while expressing concern over the optics for both Isak and the club.
“It’s not a good look for Newcastle or for him,” Shearer commented. “Newcastle can only sell if they get players in to replace him beforehand.”
Tottenham’s New Chapter: Life After Ange
Tottenham Hotspur enters the season under the spotlight following the departure of manager Ange Postecoglou. The club’s decision to part ways with Postecoglou, who led them to their first trophy in 17 years, has left fans and pundits questioning the future direction of the team.
New manager Thomas Frank faces the challenge of maintaining the momentum built by his predecessor. The team’s recent collapse against PSG in the UEFA Super Cup, where they squandered a 2-0 lead, highlighted the task ahead.
“The operation succeeded but the patient died,” Frank remarked post-match, acknowledging the need for improvement.
Tottenham’s injury woes continue with James Maddison sidelined due to an ACL injury. The club hopes for a stronger start to the season and relies on new signings like Mohammed Kudus and Mathys Tel to make an impact.
Despite the challenges, there is optimism among the British press, with predictions of a top-six finish. Gary Lineker, on ‘The Rest is Football’ podcast, shared his expectations for a “big improvement” from Spurs.
“I’d sense an improvement will happen this season,” Lineker said. “Big improvement incoming, I think the European spots are what I’m gonna go for.”
New Stars on the Horizon
The Premier League title race could be shaped by the impact of new attacking talents. Liverpool’s pursuit of Alexander Isak is part of a broader strategy to enhance their offensive capabilities. New signing Hugo Ekitike has already made an impression, scoring in the Community Shield against Crystal Palace.
Florian Wirtz, another Liverpool acquisition, is expected to be a creative force, with manager Arne Slot expressing optimism about his potential.
“If he is able to stay fit, then our fans will see great moments,” Slot stated.
Elsewhere, Manchester City has bolstered their squad with Rayan Cherki, a player likened to Lionel Messi for his playmaking abilities. Arsenal’s signing of Viktor Gyokeres adds another dimension to their attack, with manager Mikel Arteta confident in his new striker’s potential.
“Gyokeres will destroy defenders,” Arteta boldly claimed.
Manchester United’s Revamp
Manchester United is undergoing a transformation under manager Ruben Amorim, who has utilized his first summer transfer window to reshape the squad. New signings Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Sesko, and Matheus Cunha are tasked with revitalizing United’s attack after a disappointing season.
Gary Neville, on ‘The Overlap’ podcast, set realistic expectations for the new arrivals, emphasizing the importance of steady progress.
“If Sesko scores 10 and the others chip in, I still think that is a massive result,” Neville said.
While some former United players are optimistic about the team’s prospects, others, like Roy Keane, remain cautious about their chances in the upcoming season.
“At best United for me, eighth or ninth,” Keane remarked.
Promoted Teams Face Uphill Battle
The challenge of staying in the Premier League looms large for newly promoted teams Burnley, Leeds, and Sunderland. The past two seasons have seen all promoted sides relegated, but this year’s entrants are determined to buck the trend.
Leeds and Burnley, both boasting impressive Championship campaigns, have bolstered their squads with experienced players like Kyle Walker and Granit Xhaka. Sunderland has also strengthened with strategic signings.
Despite data projections predicting a struggle for survival, football legends like Ian Wright and Gary Neville have expressed confidence in Leeds’ ability to remain in the top flight.
“I think Leeds will stay up,” Carragher stated on ‘The Overlap’ podcast.
As the Premier League season unfolds, these narratives will continue to evolve, captivating fans and shaping the landscape of English football.
