Premier League 2025-26: BALLBB Writers Forecast the Season's Surprise Contenders

Here we go, then. The Community Shield has ‘officially’ raised the curtain on the 2025-26 football season, and we are now just days away from the Premier League’s big kick-off, with champions Liverpool set to get us under way on Friday when they host Bournemouth at Anfield.

That means its predictions season, and here at BALLGM we’re no different. Over the next few days, our writers will be giving their takes on all the biggest issues, from the teams who are likely to be scrapping for survival to those who will be fighting for top-four finishes and the title, and everything in between.

Today, after a season in which Nottingham Forest led a bunch of mid-table hopefuls in challenging the established order, we’ve taken a look at potential surprise packages for 2025-26:

That means its predictions season, and here at BALLGM we’re no different. Over the next few days, our writers will be giving their takes on all the biggest issues, from the teams who are likely to be scrapping for survival to those who will be fighting for top-four finishes and the title, and everything in between.

Today, after a season in which Nottingham Forest led a bunch of mid-table hopefuls in challenging the established order, we’ve taken a look at potential surprise packages for 2025-26:

Richard Martin: Crystal Palace will feel emboldened by their first-ever trophy win and, crucially, they have managed to keep their squad together, resisting the interest in Marc Guehi and Eberechi Eze thus far. Oliver Glasner’s side had a slow start last season but hit their groove in the New Year, only losing four times in their final 21 league games. If they can pick up where they left off last campaign then a top-six finish is well within their reach.

Mark Doyle: Manchester United were atrocious last season – even after the much-heralded arrival of Ruben Amorim from Sporting CP – and Old Trafford remains beset by problems. However, there are some grounds for optimism surrounding a team coming off the back of a 15th-placed finish – not least the acquisitions of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo. United may have overpaid for the pair, but they should help resolve the team’s primary problem: scoring goals. Amorim should also benefit enormously from not only having a full-season with his players, but also the lack of European football, which means he’ll regularly have a full week to prepare for Premier League games. So, while a top-four finish is beyond a still-unbalanced squad, United have every chance of re-establishing themselves as one of England‘s ‘Big Six’ – maybe even by winning a domestic cup competition.

Amee Ruszkai: I’m backing Fulham to grab a European spot. Marco Silva is a great manager, and while his team have not made a splash in the transfer market, they’ve kept hold of all of their key players, something the likes of Brighton and Bournemouth can’t say. Fulham were great at turning up against the big guns last term, and I think the consistency in their squad can help them become more reliable against the sides around them this year, especially given the likes of Crystal Palace, Newcastle, Tottenham and Nottingham Forest will be juggling European football.

Tom Maston: Some might argue that predicting Manchester United to finish in the top five would qualify them as a surprise package, but given the money that has been spent on that squad, both this summer and in previous years, that should be the bare minimum requirement for Ruben Amorim. So, instead, I’m going to tip Brighton to force themselves into the European qualification picture and earn a top-six finish. The Seagulls went under the radar in finishing eighth last season, and Fabian Hurzeler has thus far been able to keep hold of the likes of Carlos Baleba, Kaoru Mitoma, Jan Paul van Hecke and Bart Verbruggen despite links with more storied clubs. They have taken a risk in spending big on young talents this summer rather than adding one or two more established names, but if any club is going to nail such signings, it’s Brighton, and I expect them to be a more consistent force in Hurzeler’s sophomore season.

Stephen Darwin: It feels wrong to label Manchester United a surprise package but, after last season’s 15th-placed finish, here we are. As much as 2024-25 was a complete write-off, it does feel like the green shoots are starting to appear and things are about to fall into place for Ruben Amorim. His summer signings, with Benjamin Sesko recently added to Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha, have been as good as, if not better, than many of United’s top-four rivals and it feels like they are, at long last, turning a corner.

Sean Walsh: Vitor Pereira took over a Wolves team seemingly destined for the drop last November and went on to win 10 of his 22 Premier League games in charge. Even when star forward Matheus Cunha wasn’t playing, they were well drilled and boasted one of the league’s most underrated strikers, Jorgen Strand Larsen. With a full pre-season, they should improve and may surprise a lot of people.

James Westwood: The only way is up for Manchester United after the worst season in their entire history. Ruben Amorim has had a full summer to get his ideas across, and that should mean that United are far better organised right from the get-go, while the additions of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo will go a long way to solving their biggest issue: a lack of goals. Not having any European football commitments could also turn out to be a major advantage for the Red Devils, who will be in the mix for a top-six finish if everything clicks into place.

Krishan Davis: The disparity in spending between the big hitters and the rest means there will be little room for a surprise package in the upcoming season, but Sunderland‘s business has been impressive and could see them turn heads in the bottom half of the table. The Black Cats have built a squad capable of pushing away from the relegation zone and maybe even reach mid-table. Elsewhere, Tottenham will be resurgent under Thomas Frank and could enter the top-six conversation, but whether that’s a surprise is open to debate.

Joe Strange: Given they finished 17th last season, Tottenham have the greatest room for improvement of any side this season – and they will undoubtedly get far closer to where they want to be with Thomas Frank in charge. It’s easy to dismiss the talent in Spurs’ squad given their miserable league campaign last time out, but with Frank’s reputation for getting the most out of his players and more money to spend before the transfer window closes, a top four challenge is on the cards – if they can cope with Champions League football.

Premier League 2025-26: BALLBB Writers Forecast the Season’s Surprise Contenders

The Premier League is renowned for its unpredictability. While the usual suspects – Manchester City, Liverpool, Arsenal, and potentially Manchester United – are consistently in the title conversation, the 2025-26 season could see a shake-up. Our team of BALLBB writers have delved deep, analyzing squad potential, managerial acumen, and transfer strategies to identify the teams poised to challenge the established order. This isn’t about who *will* win, but who could realistically surprise everyone and become genuine Premier League contenders.

Crystal Palace: The Olise Effect

Few teams have as much untapped potential as Crystal Palace. The continued development of Michael Olise is absolutely key. If he remains fit and continues his upward trajectory, Palace could be a force. Roy Hodgson has done a commendable job stabilizing the club, but a shrewd summer transfer window focusing on defensive solidity and a dynamic midfielder could elevate them significantly. Their exciting attacking play, coupled with improved defensive organization, makes them a team to watch. The Premier League predictions often overlook Palace, but they have the ingredients for a top-seven finish.

Key Player: Michael Olise
Area for Improvement: Defensive Consistency
Potential Signing: A commanding central defender

Brentford: Beyond Toney – A Tactical Masterclass

Brentford, under Thomas Frank, have consistently punched above their weight. While the absence of Ivan Toney was felt, their system proved remarkably resilient. The 2025-26 season will be about building on that foundation. Frank’s tactical flexibility and ability to extract maximum performance from his players are invaluable. Smart recruitment, focusing on players who fit their pressing style and possess technical quality, will be crucial. Don’t underestimate their set-piece prowess either – it’s a consistent source of goals. Their ability to disrupt the Premier League top teams is well documented.

First-Hand Experience: Watching Brentford consistently out-tactics teams with significantly larger budgets is a testament to Frank’s coaching. Their relentless pressing and intelligent movement make them a nightmare to play against.

Brighton & Hove Albion: Sustaining the Momentum

Brighton’s recent success isn’t a fluke. Their recruitment strategy, focusing on identifying undervalued talent and developing young players, is exceptional. While losing key personnel is always a risk, their system is robust enough to absorb those losses. The appointment of a new manager (assuming De Zerbi moves on) will be critical, but the club’s infrastructure and playing philosophy should ensure a smooth transition. Their attractive, possession-based football makes them a joy to watch, and their ambition is clear. They are genuine Premier League challengers.

Team	Key Strength	Potential Weakness	Forecast Finish
Crystal Palace	Attacking Flair	Defensive Fragility	7th – 9th
Brentford	Tactical Flexibility	Reliance on System	8th – 10th
Brighton		Managerial Transition	6th – 8th

Aston Villa: Emery’s Continued Evolution

Unai Emery has transformed Aston Villa. His tactical nous and ability to motivate players are evident. The 2025-26 season will be about consolidating their position among the elite. Strengthening their midfield and adding depth to their squad will be essential. Ollie Watkins’ continued development as a prolific goalscorer is also vital. Villa’s ambition is clear, and they have the financial backing to compete with the best. Their direct style of play and defensive solidity make them a difficult opponent for anyone in the English Premier League.

Benefits of a Strong Midfield for Aston Villa

Improved control of possession
Enhanced creativity and attacking threat
Greater defensive stability
Ability to dictate the tempo of games

Newcastle United: Building on the Foundation

Despite some recent inconsistencies, Newcastle United still possess a squad capable of challenging for a top-four spot. Eddie Howe needs to address their defensive vulnerabilities and find a consistent goalscorer. The arrival of new investment could provide the financial firepower to attract top-quality players. Their passionate fanbase and strong home record are significant advantages. If they can rediscover their early-season form from the previous campaign, they could be dark horses for the Premier League title race.

Case Study: Newcastle’s rapid rise under Howe demonstrates the impact of astute recruitment and a clear playing philosophy. Their success serves as a blueprint for other clubs looking to break into the top six.

Practical Tips for Following These Teams: Utilize football statistics websites (like Opta or FBref) to track key performance indicators. Follow reputable football journalists on social media for insightful analysis. Watch matches regularly to gain a deeper understanding of each team’s strengths and weaknesses. Keep an eye on Premier League transfer news for updates on potential signings.