Premier League Pre-Season Review: Liverpool’s Depth Concerns and Aston Villa’s Rising Star Brian Madjo

The 2026-27 Premier League season is about to start, with Arsenal defending their title against newly promoted Coventry City. While Arsenal look set to hold onto their crown, rivals are adjusting to new leadership, including last season’s runners-up, Manchester City, now managed by Enzo Maresca after Pep Guardiola’s departure.

Unexpectedly, Xabi Alonso took charge at Chelsea rather than moving to Liverpool, where Andoni Iraola assumed command instead. Let’s explore how England’s top clubs stack up ahead of the new campaign, who’s ready to shine, and who still struggles from the summer World Cup.

WINNER: Christos Tzolis

After a disappointing spell at Norwich City, the Greek winger has impressed since joining Arsenal. He scored in his first friendly against Girona, earned a penalty versus Borussia Dortmund, sealed a shootout win over Como, and contributed two assists in the Community Shield victory over Manchester City. Tzolis looks like a player making the most of his second chance in the Premier League, possibly influencing Arsenal’s plans to move on Gabriel Martinelli.

LOSER: Manchester City’s transitional woes

Enzo Maresca’s debut match ended in a 3-0 defeat to Arsenal, highlighting City’s struggles during this rebuilding phase. Despite featuring a strong lineup, the team appeared fragile, with midfielders Mateo Kovacic and £116 million signing Elliot Anderson underperforming. The exit of key player Rodri to Barcelona leaves gaps that incoming players like Ayyoub Bouaddi and Enzo Fernandez will need time to fill, potentially causing early-season challenges for City.

WINNER: Joao Pedro

Although omitted from Brazil’s World Cup squad, Chelsea’s versatile forward showed resilience and made an impact during pre-season by scoring seven goals. This form suggests he could surpass his previous best of 20 goals in all competitions, setting up a promising season under Xabi Alonso’s guidance.

LOSER: Liverpool’s lack of depth

Liverpool hardly strengthened their squad following Arne Slot’s appointment, who had a tough act to follow after winning the Premier League in his first year. Under new boss Andoni Iraola, the team’s shallow bench was exposed during pre-season losses to Leeds and Monaco, both involving blown two-goal leads. Although promising signs came from players like Jeremy Jacquet and loan signing Ronald Araujo, many current squad members lack the fitness required for Iraola’s pressing style, making further reinforcements urgent.

WINNER: Ifeanyi Ndukwe

The young defender seized his unexpected chances at Liverpool during pre-season amid injuries to senior players. Although he cannot play competitively this season due to work permit issues, Ndukwe’s impressive friendlies have sparked loan interest, which could benefit his development and the club.

LOSER: Newcastle United’s upheaval

Newcastle experienced chaos with Eddie Howe’s surprise resignation just weeks before the season opener. Matthias Jaissle, the new manager, inherits a youthful squad missing leaders like Bruno Guimaraes and Anthony Gordon. Early defeats, including a recent loss to Bayer Leverkusen, suggest the Magpies face an uphill battle without significant reinforcements before the transfer deadline.

WINNER: JJ Gabriel

At only 15 years old, JJ Gabriel became Manchester United’s youngest player in an unofficial match during their friendly win over Atletico Madrid. Though his time on the pitch was brief and quiet, manager Michael Carrick has praised his talent and urged fans to be patient. Gabriel is poised for his competitive debut this season.

LOSER: Michael Carrick and Manchester United’s quality gap

Despite promising youth prospects like Shea Lacey, Carrick’s squad lacks the experience needed to compete at the highest level. A 4-2 defeat to AC Milan revealed the team’s vulnerability and raised questions about their ability to handle a congested fixture list. Carrick acknowledges the need for more signings to push boundaries and challenge for trophies.

WINNER: Brian Madjo

Aston Villa fought hard to register the 17-year-old striker, who immediately showcased his talent by scoring twice in his first competitive game and impressing in friendlies, including a standout UEFA Super Cup performance against PSG. His physical and mental strength may mean Villa won’t need another striker this season if registration issues remain resolved.

LOSER: Eli Junior Kroupi

The French forward’s breakthrough was halted by a foot injury requiring surgery during Bournemouth’s pre-season. Having finished last season strongly with five goals in the final matches, Kroupi’s recovery will likely keep him sidelined until late October, halting any potential transfers and delaying his Premier League progress.