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The Premier League returns this weekend as world football’s most-watched domestic competition gets under way once again.

Arsenal brought a 22-year wait to an end by winning the title last season, but the big question now is whether the Gunners can retain their crown. The race is expected to be fiercely competitive in what promises to be another gripping campaign in English football.

Before the new season kicks off, here is a look at the bookmakers’ top picks for title glory.

Manchester United’s revival under Michael Carrick earned the interim manager the role on a permanent basis, and he now faces the challenge of showing that the upturn was not just a brief burst. Carrick won 70% of his 17 matches in all competitions, though he must now deal with the extra demands that come with Champions League qualification and European football.

Youri Tielemans appears to be a smart addition, while Andrey Santos has joined from Chelsea with plenty to prove. United have not lifted the league title since Sir Alex Ferguson left in 2013, and they are now turning to a former Ferguson favourite to try and take them back to the summit.

There has been major change at Chelsea this summer, with Xabi Alonso appointed head coach after Liam Rosenior’s disastrous spell in charge.

The Spaniard takes over looking to restore his standing after a brief and unsuccessful stint at Real Madrid, despite previously being one of Europe’s most sought-after coaches during his time at Bayer Leverkusen. Alonso guided Leverkusen to the Bundesliga title without losing a game in 2023/24 and arrives with proven title-winning pedigree.

After bringing in £117m signing Morgan Rogers to a squad that is already talented, even if it has underperformed, Alonso will head into the season with considerable optimism.

Liverpool are also entering a new era after Andoni Iraola was appointed as the successor to Arne Slot. Slot was sacked after Liverpool finished fifth last season, just 12 months after winning the title.

Liverpool began last season as strong favourites following huge spending in the summer, and they will need those arrivals to deliver if they are to mount a serious challenge in 2026/27. There are still doubts about the side’s balance and depth, but there is unquestionably enough quality there to compete.

Manchester City are starting a Premier League season without Pep Guardiola for the first time since 2016. An outstanding era of a decade came to a close this summer, with Enzo Maresca chosen as the Spaniard’s replacement.

Maresca has already won trophies with Leicester and Chelsea, but taking charge at City is a significant jump. A disastrous Community Shield display against Arsenal is something they will need to put behind them quickly.

Arsenal start the Premier League campaign as favourites after winning the title last season. The Gunners are arguably the strongest defensive team in Europe and have strengthened central midfield with the signing of Bruno Guimaraes. Christos Tzolis also impressed in the Community Shield and could provide an x-factor in the final third. Arsenal have not won back-to-back league titles for 91 years. Can the North London club finally end that run?