The dust has barely settled on the wild 2024/25 Premier League season, but attention already turns to what lies ahead in 2025/26. With surprise relegation candidates, returning Championship sides, and a new champion in Liverpool, next season promises just as much drama and unpredictability. Here’s a breakdown of how each team is predicted to fare—from rock bottom to the summit.

20. Sunderland Face Brutal Return to Top Flight

After a fairytale promotion via the playoffs, Sunderland are expected to find the Premier League unforgiving. Without serious investment and upgrades to their squad, the Black Cats are likely to finish in 20th place.

19. Burnley Set for Another Drop

Burnley return to the Premier League with a strong defensive record under Scott Parker, but history suggests a familiar fate. Despite improvements from their last top-flight spell, relegation seems almost inevitable with a 19th-place prediction.

18. Leeds United’s Premier League Struggles Continue

Leeds stormed the Championship under Daniel Farke, yet the Premier League presents a far greater challenge. With Farke’s poor record at this level, Leeds are expected to end up in 18th and head back down.

17. West Ham United Just Avoid the Drop

West Ham had a disappointing campaign and find themselves hovering above the relegation zone once more. Although their squad has enough quality, they’ll need consistency to survive another difficult year.

16. Wolverhampton Wanderers Remain in Danger

Wolves are once again expected to struggle, with relegation fears looming throughout the season. However, they should have just enough to escape the bottom three.

15. Fulham Stay in the Shadows

Fulham continue to tread water in the Premier League, remaining unremarkable but steady. A 15th-place finish reflects a team capable of survival but far from competing at the top.

14. Everton Avoid Trouble, Barely

Everton’s decline from former glory continues with another season spent avoiding relegation rather than chasing Europe. Their predicted 14th-place finish is modest, but stability remains elusive.

13. Brentford Slide After Key Departures

Brentford’s squad looks set to take a hit with likely sales of key players like Bryan Mbuemo. As a result, they’re expected to drop down to 13th, marking a regression from previous solid campaigns.

12. Bournemouth Face Setback

Bournemouth had a respectable 2024/25 season, but losses of players such as Milos Kerkez could stunt their momentum. A 12th-place finish would still be solid, though below recent expectations.

11. Manchester United Still Struggling

Ruben Amorim promises better times for Manchester United, but a quick turnaround appears unlikely. Despite some progress, United are predicted to land in 11th—a far cry from where the club expects to be.

10. Tottenham Hotspur Begin Climb Back

After finishing 17th in a shocking 2024/25 campaign, Spurs are expected to rebound slightly. Ange Postecoglou’s side may rise to 10th, but balancing Champions League commitments could limit greater improvement.

9. Nottingham Forest Remain Competitive

Forest’s sensational rise to Europa League football in 2024/25 stunned everyone. While they’re likely to slip a bit, a top-half finish in 9th still reflects a club on the rise.

8. Crystal Palace on the Up

Oliver Glasner has transformed Palace into a competitive, confident outfit, fresh off FA Cup glory. Their evolution is expected to continue with a strong 8th-place finish.

7. Brighton & Hove Albion Claim European Spot

Brighton continue their impressive trajectory under smart management and exciting talent. A 7th-place finish would once again secure European football for the Seagulls.

6. Aston Villa Maintain Momentum

Unai Emery’s side are becoming a staple of the top half, and a 6th-place spot keeps them firmly in the European conversation. Their consistency remains a key strength.

5. Newcastle United Hold Strong

Newcastle once again secure a top-five finish and Champions League qualification. With their solid foundation and smart investment, they are expected to stay among England’s elite.

4. Chelsea Secure Return to the Elite

After a chaotic few years, Chelsea finally stabilize and finish 4th. The Blues are predicted to return to the Champions League and continue their rebuild.

3. Arsenal Slip from Second

After finishing second for three straight seasons, Arsenal are predicted to fall to third. Despite their consistency, they may be overtaken by rivals finding better form.

2. Manchester City Push Again

City underperformed in 2024/25 but remain a formidable force. They’re tipped to reclaim second place and continue challenging for every major honour.

1. Liverpool Go Back-to-Back

Arne Slot’s revolution at Liverpool is in full swing, with smart signings and tactical upgrades paying off. The Reds are expected to lift the Premier League trophy for the second year in a row.