Liverpool and Manchester City set to duel for Premier League title

A neutral look at how experts expect the season to unfold with title contenders and potential surprises.

Liverpool and Manchester City set to duel for Premier League title

The CBS Sports staff weigh the new Premier League season with Liverpool and Manchester City as the leading contenders. The reigning champions host Bournemouth as they navigate a squad overhaul that includes five new players, while City are highlighted for their potential to reclaim the crown. Across the board, staffers split between Liverpool and City lifting the trophy, with Arsenal and Chelsea also named in strong top-four cases depending on how quickly new signings settle in.

Predictions vary on surprises and individual awards. Everton is tipped by some as a potential top-half challenger, while West Ham are seen by several analysts as likely to disappoint. Viktor Gyokeres’s move to Arsenal is cited as a key upgrade up front, and Rayan Cherki is a frequent pick for Player of the Season with City. Haaland remains the top scorer pick for City in several votes, reflecting the ongoing expectation that City will still prize goals as a major edge. Best signings and bets are split across the panel, underscoring the season’s uncertain balance between spend and on-field performance.

A central tension in these forecasts is how much the summer spree translates into on-pitch success. Liverpool’s plan to blend old leadership with fresh legs on the flanks could renew their peak power, but the defense aging narrative adds risk if injuries or form drop below expectations. City’s squad dynamics, with Cherki potentially driving the attack, point to a high ceiling but also a need for quick chemistry to avoid the De Bruyne void becoming a long tailwind for rivals.

The piece also highlights financial and strategic questions about a modern title race. Big transfers bring glamour and short-term pressure to perform, while fan scrutiny over budgets and balance remains a persistent backdrop. The season could test whether spending power translates into sustained excellence or whether tactical innovation and depth in squad rotation prevail when markets heat up. Forecasts are useful, but the real story will unfold on the field, where health, form and timing decide the fate of every bet.

Highlights

The season will test these educated guesses against the reality of a long, demanding schedule.