Premier League Pre-Season Review: Liverpool’s Depth Concerns and Aston Villa’s Rising Star
The 2026-27 Premier League season is nearly here, with Arsenal set to begin their title defense hosting Coventry City at the Emirates. Many expect Arsenal to keep hold of the crown, especially as rivals face managerial changes, including Manchester City, who swapped Pep Guardiola for Enzo Maresca.
Maresca’s first competitive match ended in a heavy defeat, signaling challenges ahead. Meanwhile, Xabi Alonso surprised by joining Chelsea instead of Liverpool, where Andoni Iraola took charge after Alonso declined the Anfield role.
With kickoff close, here’s a look at pre-season’s winners and losers.
Winner: Christos Tzolis
Tzolis’s time at Norwich was forgettable, but his start at Arsenal has been promising. The Greek international scored and assisted across friendlies, shining brightest in the Community Shield win over Man City. While not replacing the excitement Vinicius Junior would have brought, Tzolis offers hope, potentially making Martinelli expendable.
Loser: Manchester City’s Rebuild
Maresca admitted it’s early days after a 3-0 loss to Arsenal exposed weaknesses. Haaland’s limited time and shaky performances from Kovacic and Anderson show midfield reinforcements are vital, especially with Rodri heading to Barcelona. New signings like Bouaddi and Fernandez might take time to settle, so City could struggle initially.
Winner: Joao Pedro
After missing Brazil’s World Cup squad, Chelsea’s 2025-26 Player of the Season remained focused. The 24-year-old striker scored seven pre-season goals, looking ready to surpass his previous tally of 20 goals. Haaland should watch out, as Joao Pedro seems poised for a strong campaign under Alonso.
Loser: Liverpool’s Thin Bench
Unlike last season, Liverpool made few signings, leaving depth issues glaring, especially in defense and midfield. Pre-season defeats after squandering two-goal leads revealed bench frailty. New manager Iraola noted many players lack fitness for his pressing style, making more signings urgent. Replacing Salah with Bradley Barcola won’t fix the depth problem or make Liverpool title contenders yet.
Winner: Ifeanyi Ndukwe
The young defender impressed in pre-season due to injuries to senior players. Though ineligible for official matches this season because of work permit issues, Ndukwe’s performances sparked loan interest. This could benefit both him and Liverpool as he gains experience elsewhere.
Loser: Newcastle United
Newcastle’s pre-season turmoil peaked when Eddie Howe resigned just weeks before the season started. Matthias Jaissle stepped in but admits the squad is young and lacking experience after selling key players like Bruno Guimaraes and Anthony Gordon. With few reinforcements so far, Newcastle looks set for a tough start, confirmed by recent friendly losses.
Winner: JJ Gabriel
At 15, Gabriel became Manchester United’s youngest player in an unofficial game. Though his debut was brief and quiet, manager Michael Carrick calls him a “big talent.” Fans eager for his competitive debut will likely see him feature this season as he grows into the senior squad.
Loser: Michael Carrick’s Squad Challenges
United’s academy produces talent, but Carrick faces a squad short on quality depth. Their 4-2 loss to AC Milan in a friendly exposed gaps that youth alone can’t fill. Carrick acknowledges the need for more signings to compete effectively in multiple competitions, especially the Champions League.
Winner: Brian Madjo
Aston Villa fought hard to register 17-year-old Madjo after FIFA initially blocked his participation due to international transfer rules. The attacker quickly proved his worth, scoring twice in a competitive game and impressing against PSG in the UEFA Super Cup. Villa may not need another striker if Madjo continues developing.
Loser: Eli Junior Kroupi
Kroupi looked set for a breakthrough after a strong finish to last season with Bournemouth and speculation linking him to Liverpool. A pre-season foot injury requiring surgery has sidelined him until late October, ending hopes of a summer transfer and stalling his progress.
- Pre-Season Results Highlighting Depth Issues:
- Liverpool: Lost matches after leading by two goals vs. Leeds and Monaco.
- Man City: Heavy 3-0 loss to Arsenal.
- Newcastle: 4-1 loss to Bristol City; 3-1 loss to Everton; defeat by Bayer Leverkusen.
- Manchester United: 4-2 loss to AC Milan.
