The 2024–25 Premier League title race was a one-horse parade. Liverpool ran away with the crown under new manager Arne Slot, claiming just their second title of the Premier League era. Arsenal once again came close but fell short.
Manchester City, after years of dominance under Pep Guardiola, finally looked human. Instead of chasing another title, they were left fighting for Champions League qualification. Chelsea briefly flirted with the top but fell away in early 2025. Both Tottenham and Manchester United endured nightmare seasons, finishing in the bottom half.
Elsewhere, Newcastle ended their long silverware drought, Aston Villa enjoyed big Champions League nights, and Nottingham Forest overachieved expectations. Still, no one came close to matching Liverpool.
Looking ahead to next season, the early betting odds suggest a much tighter title race.
Opening 2025–26 Premier League Winner Odds
Odds via FanDuel Sportsbook as of May 13
- Liverpool +185
- Manchester City +220
- Arsenal +250
- Newcastle +1200
- Chelsea +2100
- Aston Villa +3200
- Manchester United +3200
- Tottenham +6000
- Nottingham Forest +12000
- Brighton +18000
Liverpool Favored but Questions Remain
Liverpool cruised to the title, and their expected metrics were the best in the league. Arne Slot got the most out of a squad that many believed had already peaked during Jurgen Klopp’s final years. But repeating that success will not be easy.
Trent Alexander-Arnold is reportedly headed to Real Madrid. Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk are staying, but both are over 30. Key contributors like Darwin Nunez, Luis Diaz, and Federico Chiesa could all leave this summer.
There is always pressure on the defending champion, and at +185, there is limited value. Their total points tally last season was solid but not spectacular. Liverpool should expect a tougher challenge in 2025–26.
Manchester City Will Bounce Back
Manchester City might not return to treble-winning form, but no one should count them out. Last season was a step back by their standards, plagued by injuries and underwhelming metrics.
Kevin De Bruyne is leaving, and Guardiola is expected to make major additions. A healthy Rodri alone will be a massive boost. The pursuit of Florian Wirtz could give them another top-tier attacking threat.
Once City make their moves, their odds may shorten. They remain the deepest squad in the league, and if they address needs in midfield and defense, they could become favorites once again.
Arsenal Must Take the Next Step
Arsenal need to find a striker. Another attacking option on the left wing and help in midfield would also go a long way.
They looked like Liverpool’s main competition but finished closer to Chelsea and Newcastle in most advanced metrics. Despite the talent, Mikel Arteta’s side dropped too many points in winnable matches.
Depth remains a concern, and the tactical approach under Arteta still invites questions. At +250, the Gunners are intriguing but hard to trust until they finally get over the line.
Trophy-Winning Experience Boosts Newcastle’s Ceiling
Newcastle’s League Cup win could be the start of something bigger. The club’s underlying numbers were similar to Chelsea, City, and Arsenal. In Alexander Isak, they may have the best striker in the league.
Eddie Howe proved his tactical chops last season, and he will need to rotate effectively with Champions League duties returning. The club is already looking to add depth, with players like Matheus Cunha, Jonathan David, and Marc Guehi linked to St. James’ Park.
Financial constraints exist, but Newcastle have spent wisely under current ownership. If they land one or two impact players, they are worth a look at +1200.
Chelsea Are the Final Realistic Contender
Chelsea sit at +2100 and still carry a ton of uncertainty. Enzo Maresca has potential but faces a chaotic front office and a squad with some key issues.
Enzo Fernandez reportedly wants out, and the club’s transfer strategy has been more about quantity than quality. Striker targets include Victor Osimhen and Liam Delap, but Nicolas Jackson still holds the starting spot for now.
The team overperformed in the first half and faded badly down the stretch. Cole Palmer regressed, and the defense never fully clicked.
Chelsea have talent, but they are still a mystery. They may improve simply through experience and a bit more consistency. At this price, they are a dark horse with upside — if things click.
Final Thoughts
The Premier League odds will shift throughout the summer as transfers play out and injuries pop up. That makes now a great time to find value before the market adjusts.
Liverpool are deserved favorites after last season, but City, Arsenal, and even Newcastle have strong cases to make a title push.
As always in the Premier League, depth, health, and summer signings will determine who lifts the trophy next May.
If you’re looking to get ahead of the odds, this is the window to act.
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