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Arsenal ended last season as Premier League champions, but can Mikel Arteta’s side successfully defend their crown?

That is the next challenge for the Gunners, who have spent the summer strengthening an already impressive squad as they look to retain their title.

So, who will challenge them in 2026-27? And who will be lifting the trophy at the end of the season?

Square in the Air asked a host of former Premier League stars to pick their title winners.

Pat Nevin – Arsenal

“For me, Arsenal are just edging it at the moment. If the likes of William Saliba, Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka play fully fit, that edge they’ve got goes away.

“However, they’ve bought well over a period of time, they’ve not panicked and they’ve slowly but surely built a really good team. It’s as intelligent a build as I’ve seen for many, many years for any club.”

John Aldridge – Arsenal

“Arsenal are the favourites, but it’s not like someone is going to get 90-plus points and come second. Behind them it’s probably Manchester City, unless someone else pops out from the shadows.”

Lee Sharpe – Manchester United

“I’ll go Manchester United to win the league, and keep an eye out for Tottenham.

“I think with the football Roberto De Zerbi plays, Spurs just could surprise a few of us next season and will be around the top six.”

Brad Friedel – Arsenal

“I think Arsenal will win the Premier League. Then Chelsea will finish second, Liverpool third and Manchester United fourth.”

Tim Sherwood – Arsenal

“I think Arsenal will win the league. Everyone’s asked them one question over the last three or four years: ‘Have you got the bottle? Have you got the character? Can you get over the line?’

“They’ve done it now. They’ve had the confidence to be able to do it.”

Phil Bardsley – Arsenal

“I think Arsenal will do it again. The form they showed last season, their strength in depth and the quality of their new additions has improved an already excellent team.

“The other top clubs have all had some major changes in the last twelve months, and Arsenal’s squad is more stabilised, so I think they’ll finish top, ahead of Manchester United in second.”

Emile Heskey – Arsenal

“I hate to say it, but Arsenal. They had the most complete team in the Premier League last year, and they’ve further strengthened their spine by signing Bruno Guimaraes and Ezri Konsa.

“Mikel Arteta has shown he can beat Man City to the title over a season, and it will take some time for Enzo Maresca to become familiar with his team, and vice versa, especially after the Community Shield.”

Chris Waddle – Arsenal

“Unfortunately, it’ll be Arsenal, then Man City. Liverpool don’t have the squad yet to challenge the title.

“Aston Villa could be there or thereabouts, but I think Chelsea have a great opportunity if they get off to a strong start without European football, so keep an eye on them.”