Aston Villa and Newcastle United are expected to contend for Champions League places, while Crystal Palace, Brighton, Bournemouth and Brentford could battle for European spots. Nottingham Forest, who placed seventh last season, are predicted to fall to 11th
With the 2025–26 Premier League season starting August 15, Opta’s supercomputer has forecast Liverpool to retain the title, giving them a 28.5% chance of finishing top. Arsenal are tipped for a fourth straight runners-up spot with a 24.3% chance, while Manchester City and Chelsea complete the projected top four.
Aston Villa and Newcastle United are expected to contend for Champions League places, while Crystal Palace, Brighton, Bournemouth and Brentford could battle for European spots. Nottingham Forest, who placed seventh last season, are predicted to fall to 11th. Manchester United are projected to finish 12th, a result that “would likely cost Ruben Amorim his job.” Tottenham are expected to place 14th under Thomas Frank.
The model predicts relegation for all three promoted clubs—Leeds United, Burnley and Sunderland—for the third consecutive season. Opta’s table also places Fulham, West Ham and Wolves in the lower ranks, while Everton are set to match last season’s 13th-place finish.