Ex-Chelsea star Mikel names Arsenal as team to beat in 2026-27 Premier League
Former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel named Arsenal as the team to beat in the upcoming 2026-27 Premier League season during an episode of his ObiOne podcast. Mikel pointed out that the Gunners won the 2025-26 title, ending a 22-year wait for the trophy, and have settled into a stable squad under manager Mikel Arteta, who has been at the club for several years. He noted that Arsenal have finished in the top two of the league for the last four seasons, showing consistent excellence.
For Nigerian football fans who follow the English Premier League, this assessment shapes expectations for the title race and influences betting, fantasy-league choices, and viewing habits. Arsenal’s status as favourites means their matches will draw extra attention, while rivals Manchester City and Liverpool have undergone coaching changes this summer, potentially opening opportunities for challengers. Chelsea, after finishing tenth last season, have added new players in hopes of climbing the table.
What should you know or do? Consider Arsenal as the early favourite but monitor how City and Liverpool adapt to new managers; watch Chelsea’s new signings for signs of improvement; and if you engage in betting or fantasy football, weigh the odds of Arsenal maintaining dominance against the potential for a resurgence from the other big clubs. With Arsenal seen as the team to beat, will you back them for the title, or look for value in Manchester City or Liverpool under their new bosses?