Five things we’ve discovered from pre-season before the Premier League starts this month
With the new Premier League season just around the corner after a nonstop World Cup, all 20 top teams are gearing up for the 2026-27 campaign. So, what’s the buzz so far?
Arsenal kicks off their title defense on August 21 against newcomers Coventry City and started pre-season with a bang. They breezed past Girona 4-1, thanks to goals from Kai Havertz, Christos Tzolis, Max Dowman, and Gabriel Jesus. But things got tougher against Real Betis on August 5, where defensive mistakes led to a 3-1 loss. Coach Mikel Arteta said the team was “fuming” after that game.
One bright spot has been new signing Christos Tzolis, who impressed fans, especially when he set up Piero Hincapie with a perfect corner kick. Just what Arsenal needed—another expert at set-pieces!
Here are five more takeaways from pre-season, including a rising star at Aston Villa and a key midfielder Manchester United might lean on.
Liverpool faced a surprising problem during their U.S. tour: not enough center-backs. So, assistant manager Tommy Elphick even joined training sessions to help out. The Reds have signed Victor Munoz and Jeremy Jacquet, but with big names like Andy Robertson, Mo Salah, and Ibrahima Konate leaving, they need reinforcements soon to stay competitive.
Speaking of United, Mason Mount’s talent is clear but injuries have held him back. Since moving from Chelsea in 2023, he’s missed over a year due to injury. Still, he’s looking sharp ahead of their opener against Hull City on August 22. After strong pre-season games, many expect him to start alongside Bruno Fernandes and Andrey Santos. Fingers crossed he stays fit!
Other young players have also caught eyes this pre-season. Shea Lacey, JJ Gabriel, and Jim Thwaites have featured for Manchester United, while Arsenal’s Max Dowman scored and assisted against Girona. Liverpool’s Rio Ngumoha, Manchester City’s Ryan McAidoo, and Chelsea’s Reggie Walsh have also impressed. Young Arsenal talent Marli Salmon, one of their youngest-ever players, is another exciting prospect. Plus, keep an eye on Jeremy Monga, Luca Williams-Barnett, Joshua Abe, and Jesse Derry—the future looks bright for England.
At Aston Villa, 17-year-old Brian Madjo is making waves with four pre-season goals, including two against Walsall. He joined from Metz in January but was waiting for FIFA clearance. On August 4, the club won their appeal to play him in official matches. Manager Unai Emery is a big fan—no wonder with a 6ft 4in striker scoring goals already!
Manchester City are in a new chapter under coach Enzo Maresca. After Pep Guardiola’s decade-long reign, Maresca is bringing fresh ideas. In a recent pre-season match against Inter Milan, City pressed high and played a more direct style through the middle. Phil Foden said Maresca has “different ideas” about playing out from the back, with wingers staying wide to pull defenders out of position. Antoine Semenyo summed it up well, saying Maresca’s approach sounded music to his ears and showed promise.
It’s early days, but the season promises plenty of excitement. Stay tuned!