The English Premier League is set to kick off on Saturday morning AEST, bringing with it a myriad of storylines as the 2025/26 season unfolds. Among the most compelling narratives are the ongoing transfer saga involving two Champions League clubs and the heightened focus on Tottenham Hotspur in the post-Ange Postecoglou era. Meanwhile, a fresh influx of goal scorers promises to shape the title race.
Manchester United, following a disappointing campaign last season, are striving to rejuvenate their squad, while newly promoted teams aim to defy recent trends of immediate relegation. Here are the key talking points as the new season approaches.
Striker Saga: Alexander Isak’s Transfer Drama
The transfer window has been dominated by Alexander Isak’s desire to leave Newcastle United for Liverpool. The reigning champions have tabled a £110 million (A$229m) offer for the prolific striker, who netted 23 goals last season, trailing only Mohamed Salah in the scoring charts. Liverpool’s aggressive spending, exceeding $600 million this window, includes acquiring Florian Wirtz for £116m (A$241.5m) and Hugo Ekitike for £79m (A$164.5m), both poised to enhance their attacking prowess.
However, following the tragic passing of Diogo Jota and the departures of Darwin Nunez and Luis Diaz, Liverpool is keen to secure Isak’s services. Despite the absence of a second offer, the standoff between Isak and Newcastle seems unsustainable as the September 1 transfer deadline looms.
Reports suggest Isak is on strike, having missed Newcastle’s season opener and the club’s pre-season tour. Manager Eddie Howe expressed his disappointment, acknowledging the disruption to team morale during pre-season.
“Alex, for me, is one of the best strikers in the world – if not the best. To miss him from your squad leaves a huge gap,” Howe told the BBC.
Newcastle’s reluctance to sell Isak without securing a replacement is understandable, given their failed attempts to sign Liam Delap and Joao Pedro, and a rejected bid for Yoane Wissa. Premier League legend Alan Shearer described the situation as “a poor look” but empathized with Newcastle’s stance.
“It’s not a good look, for Newcastle or for him,” Shearer remarked. “Newcastle can only sell if they get players in to replace him beforehand.”
Tottenham’s Transition: Life After Ange Postecoglou
Tottenham Hotspur enters the new season under scrutiny following the sacking of Ange Postecoglou. The team’s recent collapse against PSG in the UEFA Super Cup, after leading 2-0, highlighted familiar weaknesses. New manager Thomas Frank, however, remains optimistic despite the setback.
“The operation succeeded but the patient died,” Frank quipped post-match, acknowledging the need for improvement in penalty shootouts.
Frank faces the challenge of managing Champions League football and coping with the loss of former captain Heung-min Son. The injury to James Maddison adds to Tottenham’s woes, but the club hopes for impactful performances from new signings Mohammed Kudus, Mathys Tel, and João Palhinha. British media outlets predict a top-six finish for Spurs, with Gary Lineker also anticipating “big improvement” this season.
New Strikers Set to Influence Title Race
The Premier League’s title race could hinge on the performance of newly signed strikers. Liverpool’s pursuit of Alexander Isak complements their acquisition of Hugo Ekitike, who impressed with a goal in the Community Shield. Florian Wirtz’s arrival is expected to bolster Liverpool’s attack, with manager Arne Slot optimistic about his potential impact.
Manchester City’s addition of Rayan Cherki, likened to Lionel Messi, adds creativity to their squad, while Arsenal’s signing of Viktor Gyokeres addresses their need for a true striker. Chelsea’s attack features new talents Liam Delap, Joao Pedro, and the promising Brazilian winger Estevao, dubbed ‘Messinho’ for his flair.
Manchester United’s Revamp and Promoted Teams’ Challenge
Manchester United, unlikely title contenders, have revamped their attack with Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Sesko, and Matheus Cunha. The trio aims to improve United’s dismal scoring record from last season. Gary Neville set a benchmark for their performance, but expressed more confidence in Arsenal’s Gyokeres.
Meanwhile, newly promoted Burnley, Leeds, and Sunderland face the daunting task of avoiding immediate relegation. Leeds and Burnley, both with strong Championship records, hope to defy the odds, while Sunderland relies on experienced signings like Granit Xhaka. Despite data projections predicting their struggle, experts like Ian Wright and Gary Neville believe Leeds can survive.
As the Premier League season kicks off, fans and pundits alike will be watching closely to see how these storylines unfold. The transfer sagas, managerial changes, and new player arrivals promise an exciting and unpredictable campaign.
