Bournemouth’s Rise and Brighton’s Fall Define Premier League’s Early Season Shake-Up
The opening seven games of the 2025–26 Premier League season have produced a dramatic shift in form compared to last year. Some clubs have exceeded expectations with impressive early runs, while others have slumped alarmingly. Here’s the full club-by-club ranking from 17 to 1, based on the points difference from the 2024–25 campaign.
17. Wolverhampton Wanderers: -6 points
Wolverhampton Wanderers F.C. have experienced one of the steepest early drops, falling from eight points last year to just two. Their attack has been blunt, and their defensive structure is shaky. A turnaround is urgently needed if they’re to avoid a relegation battle.
16. Aston Villa: -8 points
Aston Villa F.C. have tumbled from 17 to nine points. After an excellent 2024–25 start, their drop has been both surprising and costly. Defensive lapses and inconsistency have left them in a tough spot early on.
15. Brighton & Hove Albion: -9 points
Brighton & Hove Albion F.C. have gone from 18 to nine points — the largest drop of any club. Their fluent attacking style has lost its edge, and results have dried up. It’s a worrying sign for a team that was flying high just a year ago.
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14. Newcastle United: -5 points
Newcastle United F.C. have slipped from 14 to nine points. They’ve struggled to find last season’s intensity, especially in defense. If ambitions remain high, they need to rediscover their spark quickly.
13. Nottingham Forest: -5 points
Nottingham Forest F.C. have halved their total from ten to five points. A lack of goals and rhythm has slowed their progress. Their early slump places pressure on them to respond in the coming fixtures.
12. Manchester United: -4 points
Manchester United F.C. have dropped from 14 to ten points. Their inconsistency remains a major issue, with performances lacking control and identity. A four-point drop is not catastrophic, but it reflects a step backward.
11. Brentford: -4 points
Brentford F.C. have gone from 11 to seven points. Their usual attacking energy hasn’t translated into goals or wins. They’re still competitive, but they’re struggling to turn games in their favor.
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10. West Ham United: -4 points
West Ham United F.C. have slid from eight to four points. A lack of cutting edge has left them lagging behind. It’s been a sluggish start that could become a bigger problem if not addressed soon.
9. Chelsea: -1 point
Chelsea F.C. have dipped slightly from 12 to 11 points. Inconsistency remains their biggest enemy, with promising spells followed by flat performances. A minor drop, but they need more sharpness to climb.
8. Fulham: -1 point
Fulham F.C. have moved from nine to eight points. They’ve been competitive in most games but lack a decisive edge in attack. A steady if unspectacular start keeps them in mid-table.
7. Liverpool: +1 point
Liverpool F.C. have edged up from 14 to 15 points. It’s a solid base, but not yet their best. They remain well-positioned to challenge at the top once they find more rhythm.
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6. Crystal Palace: +3 points
Crystal Palace F.C. have improved from nine to 12 points. Their compact shape and defensive discipline have frustrated stronger sides. It’s a quietly impressive start that has lifted them up the table.
5. Everton: +5 points
Everton F.C. have climbed from six to 11 points. Their improved structure and resilience have been key factors. After years of struggles, this start gives them real hope of a stable season.
4. Arsenal: +5 points
Arsenal F.C. have jumped from 11 to 16 points, the highest total in the league so far. Their mix of attacking fluidity and defensive strength has made them early title contenders. A clear and confident statement of intent.
3. Manchester City: +6 points
Manchester City F.C. have improved from seven to 13 points. Their calm, controlled performances have steadily built momentum. This is classic City — hitting their stride early and setting a high standard.
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2. Tottenham Hotspur: +7 points
Tottenham Hotspur F.C. have leapt from seven to 14 points, one of the biggest improvements in the league. Their attack is fluid and fearless, and their confidence is growing fast. A sign that they’re ready to challenge at the top.
1. Bournemouth: +9 points
AFC Bournemouth are the standout risers, going from five to 14 points. Their fast, aggressive play has caught teams off guard. No club has improved more than them, making them the surprise package of the season so far.
