Premier League & FA Cup 2025–26: Odds, Predictions, and Key Factors to Watch

As the 2025–26 football season approaches, fans and punters alike are turning their attention to predictions and odds across England's top competitions. From the race for the Premier League title to the drama of the FA Cup, bookmakers have already released early lines. For those exploring non-GamStop betting options, these early odds offer valuable insight into potential upsets and value picks. At the center of the conversation are Liverpool and Manchester City, both seen as prime contenders to dominate the domestic scene.

Premier League 2025–26 Title Odds: Liverpool Lead the Charge

The title odds from major bookmakers place Liverpool at the top of the pecking order:

These odds reflect not only recent performances but also squad developments over the summer.

Why Liverpool Are Favorites

Liverpool come into the new season as reigning Premier League champions, having won the 2024–25 title in dominant fashion—15 points clear of second place. The arrival of Arne Slot has rejuvenated the squad, introducing tactical freshness while maintaining the club's trademark intensity.

The Reds' summer transfer activity has also impressed the betting markets. The record-breaking signing of Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen, along with Jeremie Frimpong as a replacement for Trent Alexander-Arnold, has significantly strengthened both creative and defensive aspects of their play.

Coupled with a favorable early-season fixture list, Liverpool appears well-positioned to mount a serious title defense.

Manchester City: The Relentless Pursuer

City may have fallen short last season, finishing behind Liverpool and Arsenal, but Pep Guardiola's side remains a serious threat. Their odds, hovering around +225, are reflective of their potential to bounce back quickly.

A fully fit Rodri, a reinforced midfield, and a stable squad provide the foundation for another strong campaign. City's recent Club World Cup triumph serves as a reminder of their elite pedigree on the global stage. Though last season may have been a minor stumble, few would dare write off City's title credentials.

Arsenal: Solid, but Third Favorite

Arsenal's continued progress under Mikel Arteta sees them maintain top-three status. The addition of Martin Zubimendi has enhanced their midfield depth, but doubts remain about whether they can keep pace with Liverpool and City over a full season.

Still, with odds close to +250, Arsenal are very much part of the conversation.

Dark Horses: Chelsea and Newcastle

With Chelsea offered between 7/1 and 14/1 and Newcastle at 16/1 to 28/1, both clubs are viewed as outsiders with real potential. Chelsea's continued youth-focused transfer policy, including the signing of Jamie Gittens, shows long-term planning—but immediate results are uncertain.

Newcastle's solid structure and strategic spending could deliver surprise results, especially if they maintain form against top-six clubs.

Relegation Battle: Trouble for the Newcomers?

On the other end of the table, bookmakers have identified several relegation candidates:

• Burnley
• Sunderland
• Leeds United

These teams carry the shortest odds to go down, largely due to weaker squads, limited summer activity, or difficulty in adapting to the pace of the Premier League.

Expect a tight relegation fight, with each point proving critical—especially in the bottom half of the table.

Top 4 Predictions: Familiar Faces Lead

In terms of finishing in the top four, odds are again led by Liverpool, Manchester City, and Arsenal. Chelsea and Newcastle round out the list of hopefuls, though they face stiffer competition and less room for error.

FA Cup 2025–26: New Season, Familiar Favorites

The FA Cup, or 'Coppa d'Inghilterra' as it's known in Italian, remains one of football's most unpredictable tournaments—but the bookmakers are siding with the traditional giants for now.

Crystal Palace: From Champions to Underdogs

Having won the FA Cup in 2025, Crystal Palace are priced at 25/1 to repeat the feat—demonstrating just how rare back-to-back wins are in this competition. While the cup remains open to surprises, the betting consensus is that lightning won't strike twice for the Eagles.

Predicted FA Cup Winner

Manchester City and Liverpool are the standout picks, with Arsenal close behind. With squad depth, knockout experience, and elite managers, these clubs are best positioned to lift the trophy at Wembley in 2026.

What Influences These Odds?

Betting markets respond to a mix of tangible and speculative factors. These include:

• Squad depth and injuries
• Transfer window activity
• Pre-season form
• Managerial changes
• Fixture difficulty

For Liverpool, the combination of momentum, strong signings, and tactical identity make them deserving favorites. For City, Guardiola's track record and proven squad give confidence even after a setback.

Meanwhile, Crystal Palace's long odds in the FA Cup reflect historical rarity more than squad ability.

Summary of Key Predictions

• Premier League Title Favorites:
  • Liverpool – Reigning champions, reinforced squad
  • Manchester City – Always dangerous under Pep
  • Arsenal – Strong squad, third in betting odds
• Top Four Challengers:
  • Chelsea and Newcastle look promising, but need consistency
• Likely Relegation Candidates:
  • Burnley, Sunderland, Leeds United
• FA Cup Favorites:
  • Manchester City, Liverpool, and Arsenal
  • Crystal Palace unlikely to repeat, per odds
    A Season of Renewal and Rivalry

The 2025–26 season is shaping up to be one of the most compelling in recent memory. With Liverpool and Manchester City both reloaded and ready to clash, and Arsenal eager to prove they belong at the top, the Premier League promises drama, quality, and unpredictability.

Meanwhile, in the FA Cup, every team has a shot—but experience, depth, and tactical savvy still matter most.

As always, odds will shift as the season unfolds—affected by transfers, injuries, and form. For those interested in football betting, following these trends offers not just entertainment but valuable insight into the game's evolving landscape.