Aguero tips Aston Villa to gatecrash Arsenal's Premier League title defence in 2026/27

Sergio Aguero has backed Arsenal to retain the Premier League title in 2026/27 but warned Mikel Arteta’s side that Aston Villa and a resurgent Chelsea could mount serious challenges to their crown.

The former Manchester City striker, who won five league titles at the Etihad, said Arsenal’s sustained investment and clear tactical identity make them the benchmark for every other club. “Arsenal were deserved champions and they’ve been doing a very good job with Arteta for several years now,” Aguero said. “Season after season they’ve brought in players who have strengthened what was a very young team and which now also has the experience needed to keep fighting for more trophies. I think they’ll be the team to beat for everyone else.”

Despite his confidence in Arsenal, Aguero reserved particular praise for Unai Emery’s Aston Villa, naming them as his pick to enter the title conversation. “I’d add Aston Villa into the title race — they’ve been doing a great job with Emery,” he said. “This is a season with a lot of changes at the big clubs. We’ll have to see which one adapts the quickest and finds the consistency you need to stay in the title race until the end.”

Aguero pointed to widespread managerial upheaval at the traditional contenders as a factor that could reshape the division. He noted that Chelsea have appointed Xabi Alonso, Manchester City are now under Enzo Maresca, Liverpool have brought in Andoni Iraola, Tottenham have turned to Roberto De Zerbi, and Manchester United have handed the job to Michael Carrick. “Some of them have been there a little longer, but they’re still basically rebuilding their teams,” he said.

On Chelsea specifically, Aguero suggested their absence from European competition this season could prove advantageous in the long run. “Chelsea will be playing in fewer competitions and that will work in their favour in the Premier League — there will be less physical strain and fewer rotations,” he said. “Having fewer games will ultimately be an advantage, especially in the final part of the season when the league is decided.”

He also highlighted the arrivals of Jordan Henderson and Danny Welbeck at Stamford Bridge as shrewd additions. “They are players with proven careers in the Premier League and they can provide that experience and leadership that a team with ambitions always needs,” Aguero added.

Arsenal open their title defence on Friday evening when they host Coventry City, having ended a two-decade wait for the championship last season.