EPL: Emmanuel Petit names teams to finish top three this season

A former Arsenal and Chelsea star, Emmanuel Petit, has predicted the teams to finish in the top three of the 2026-27 Premier League season.

He said that Manchester United and Liverpool will fight for the fourth position in the Premier League standings.

The Premier League season kicks off on Friday, with the defending champions, Arsenal, facing Coventry City at the Emirates Stadium.

While the Gunners appear to be the most stable team in contention for the title, several other clubs have made coaching changes in recent months.

In a recent interview with Grosvenor Sport, Petit was asked to identify the clubs he believes will secure a top-four finish in the Premier League.

He responded through Metro, stating, “The fact that Chelsea is not participating in European competitions is a significant factor. Midweek matches require considerable energy and complicate the ability to maintain a consistent performance in the Premier League just three days later.

“This absence of European football will provide a substantial advantage for Xabi Alonso’s team this season. Therefore, I anticipate they will finish in the top three alongside Arsenal and Manchester City.”

Petit, who played for Arsenal from 1997 to 2000, further elaborated, “The competition for the fourth position is more challenging to forecast. It will likely be a contest between Manchester United and Liverpool. I am still eager to see Liverpool’s full strategy in the transfer market, as they currently seem to lack some key players.

“They have appointed a new manager in Andoni Iraola, and adapting to the demands of his new club after Bournemouth represents a significant transition. They need to achieve results promptly.”

“Manchester United has demonstrated faith in Michael Carrick, and I expect them to be in contention. However, the pressures of returning to the Champions League and the requisite squad rotation indicate that they are still in need of additional players.

“Manchester United must address their defensive issues. Ultimately, I foresee the top four comprising Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City, and Manchester United.”