Arsenal, who won their 14th league title in May 2026, will be looking to assert their dominance. However, their left side of attack is in need of strengthening. Christos Tzolis, the 24-year-old Greece international, may feature in this position. Bruno Guimarães, linked with a move, could also start alongside Myles Lewis-Skelly in midfield. The 19-year-old has been prominent in pre-season after Declan Rice, Martín Zubimendi, and Martin Ødegaard took extended breaks.
Manchester City, with a new manager and significant midfield changes, will be looking to make a statement. Enzo Fernández appears the preferred candidate to replace Rodri, whose proposed move to Barcelona has yet to materialise. Phil Foden, struggling for form since being named player of the year in 2024, has a chance to reassert himself. John Stones' departure from Manchester City matters less from a footballing perspective than the loss of a dressing-room leader.