Premier League 2026-27 preseason winners and losers

Manchester City emerge as the standout winners from the Premier League's 2026-27 preseason, having strengthened their squad with strategic additions whilst maintaining their title credentials. The Cityzens, who claimed their fourth consecutive league crown in 2025-26 with 91 points, have bolstered their attacking options ahead of a gruelling campaign that will see them compete across four major competitions. Pep Guardiola's side has made the most of the transfer window, acquiring proven talent to challenge rivals already preparing for what promises to be a fiercely competitive season.

The recruitment drive represents a clear statement of intent from City, who know they must fend off revitalised challengers across Europe's elite division. Arsenal and Liverpool, who finished second and third respectively last term, have also strengthened intelligently, yet City's business suggests they alone possess the financial muscle and infrastructure to dominate this cycle. The preseason results have validated the club's transfer strategy, with their new signings immediately gelling with Guardiola's system—a feat rarely achieved without meticulous planning and a clear tactical blueprint.

As fixtures loom and the competitive season approaches, City's preseason form offers a blueprint for the campaign ahead, though preseason records have proven unreliable barometers historically. The squad depth assembled suggests City will withstand the 60-plus matches awaiting them, and their Champions League aspirations remain firmly intact. Conversely, sides struggling in warm-up matches—namely struggling mid-table clubs and those hamstrung by injury—face an uphill battle, with preseason deficiencies often magnified under real competitive pressure once the season begins in August.