
Who will be the 2025-26 Premier League's surprise package? BALLGM writers make their predictions
After Nottingham Forest came close to earning Champions League football last term, which team is best placed to perform above expectations this time?
The Premier League is the top tier of professional football in England, featuring 20 clubs competing annually from August to May. Established in 1992, it is renowned for its high-quality matches, global fanbase, and competitive intensity. Each team plays 38 matches, with the champion determined by points earned. The league also determines qualification for European competitions and relegation to the EFL Championship. Known for its unpredictability and star players, it’s one of the most-watched sports leagues worldwide.
After Nottingham Forest came close to earning Champions League football last term, which team is best placed to perform above expectations this time?
Marseille forward Mason Greenwood allegedly spat at Aston Villa star Amadou Onana during a friendly contest, which sparked a clash with Tyrone Mings.
Darwin Nunez has shared a touching goodbye message to Liverpool after departing the club for Al-Hilal.
Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson is reportedly ready to call time on his Stamford Bridge stay as he has set his sights on a move to Newcastle United. But the transfer is hanging by a thread, tied to the future of Newcastle’s star man Alexander Isak, who is being hunted by Liverpool in one of the window’s fiercest transfer battles.
Enzo Maresca has confirmed that both Wesley Fofana and Trevor Chalobah will be fit for the start of the Premier League season.
Newcastle United are on the verge of securing the signature of AC Milan defender Malick Thiaw, with the towering centre-back expected to undergo his medical on Monday before penning a deal that will take him to Tyneside. The Magpies have agreed an initial payment of €35million (£30.3m / $40.8m), with a further €5m (£4.3m / $5.8m) in potential performance-related bonuses close to being finalised.
Michail Antonio has confirmed that he is in discussions with clubs both in England and abroad as he plots his return to football.
RB Leipzig are reportedly ready to bring Christopher Nkunku back to Germany, as part of a blockbuster deal that would see Xavi Simons join Chelsea in a £60 million ($81m) move. The Bundesliga side have floated the sensational idea of a player-plus-cash swap with Chelsea preparing to move out several players, including Nkunku, before going all-in on their top attacking targets.
Manchester City may need to make several sales before the transfer window is up, amidst concerns over UEFA regulations ahead of the new season.