(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Premier League 2025-26: Key Storylines as Liverpool Defend Their Crown
The Premier League returns this weekend, and excitement is building as Liverpool begin their quest for a record-breaking 21st English title. Under Arne Slot, the reigning champions are tipped by many to retain their crown — but rivals Arsenal, Manchester City, Chelsea, and Manchester United are determined to challenge.
Liverpool Target Historic Success
Liverpool kick off their title defence against Bournemouth on Friday, with a refreshed squad and big ambitions. Not since the early 1980s have the Reds won back-to-back league titles, and doing so would move them ahead of Manchester United for the most English championships.
This summer, Liverpool invested heavily, bringing in Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Jeremie Frimpong, and Milos Kerkez in a £256 million spending spree. While Darwin Nunez and Luis Diaz have departed, Slot believes his reworked attack — potentially boosted by Newcastle’s Alexander Isak — will be even more effective than last season.
Arsenal’s Long-Awaited Title Push
After finishing second three years in a row, Arsenal are determined to finally get over the line. Mikel Arteta has strengthened his squad with Viktor Gyokeres, Martin Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard, Noni Madueke, and Kepa Arrizabalaga, in a bid to end the club’s 21-year wait for a league title.
Arteta says belief is high: “We have been very close the last few seasons. We know our targets and have the belief to achieve them.”
Manchester City’s Road to Recovery
Following their first trophyless season since 2017, Manchester City are aiming to bounce back. Pep Guardiola has added Rayan Ait-Nouri, Rayan Cherki, Tijjani Reijnders, and James Trafford to a side that has seen key players like Kevin De Bruyne, Kyle Walker, and Jack Grealish depart.
Whether these changes are enough to return City to the top remains to be seen, especially with lingering concerns over star midfielder Rodri’s fitness.
Chelsea Building on Global Glory
Chelsea enter the new season with momentum after winning the FIFA Club World Cup and the UEFA Conference League last term. Enzo Maresca’s youthful squad has been reinforced by Joao Pedro, Liam Delap, Jamie Gittens, Estevao Willian, and Jorrel Hato.
With emerging talents like Cole Palmer and Enzo Fernandez, the Blues are hoping to challenge at the top while continuing their impressive development.
Manchester United Seeking Redemption
Manchester United endured their lowest league finish in decades and missed out on the Champions League. Manager Ruben Amorim has responded with a major attacking overhaul, signing Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo, and Matheus Cunha in a £200 million rebuild.
With Marcus Rashford on loan to Barcelona and other departures likely, United’s new-look side will aim to restore pride and compete for honours once again.
The 2025-26 Premier League season promises drama, high-quality football, and intense competition from the very first whistle.