The new English football season is underway, and the betting markets are buzzing with anticipation. With Liverpool crowned champions in 2024–25 and Arsenal again playing the role of runner-up, the Premier League enters 2025–26 as one of the most competitive in recent memory. Meanwhile, the FA Cup landscape adds another layer of intrigue, offering knockout drama where odds and form can shift in an instant.
For fans who also like to place wagers, offers such as the DraftKings Kentucky Promo Code highlight how sportsbooks are engaging bettors ahead of a campaign expected to deliver both drama and value. As of August 2025, bookmakers have released detailed odds for both competitions, painting a picture of where analysts see value and which clubs might surprise. Let’s break it all down.
Premier League Title Race 2025–2026
The Favorites: Liverpool, Arsenal, Manchester City
The bookmakers agree that the title will likely remain in the hands of one of the “big three.”
- Liverpool enters as slight favorite, priced between +175 and +200. Their recent championship validated Jürgen Klopp’s rebuild, and with Mohamed Salah still delivering elite numbers (32 goals last season) and Virgil van Dijk anchoring the defense, the squad looks balanced, resilient, and hungry. The addition of depth across midfield also gives them the flexibility to manage Champions League commitments.
- Arsenal, priced around +225 to +240, continues its evolution under Mikel Arteta. After finishing runner-up for three consecutive seasons, the Gunners are seen as reliable contenders. Kai Havertz has flourished in a more advanced role, while the arrival of Raheem Sterling on loan adds depth and experience in attack. Arsenal’s consistency makes them a strong bet, though many wonder if they can finally overcome Liverpool in the decisive moments.
- Manchester City, listed between +300 and +333, rounds out the top three. Despite enduring a trophyless 2024–25, City remains stacked with talent: Erling Haaland is the most lethal striker in Europe, Bernardo Silva provides tactical versatility, and Omar Marmoush is emerging as a breakout attacker with seven goals in 17 matches. Pep Guardiola’s men are expected to bounce back strongly, making City perhaps the best value bet among the favorites.
The Chasing Pack: Chelsea and Newcastle
- Chelsea, at +800 to +900, is considered a long shot but has attracted attention. While managerial instability has plagued the Blues, they still boast a roster filled with quality. The key storyline is whether their attacking options can find consistency, especially with Raheem Sterling out on loan and Jack Grealish rumored to be unsettled.
- Newcastle United, ranging from +1200 to +3300, sits in a fascinating spot. Their Saudi-backed project has raised expectations, but they remain behind the top three in squad depth. For bettors, Newcastle represents a high-risk, high-reward play—one that could pay off if injuries strike the favorites.
The Outsiders: Manchester United, Tottenham, Aston Villa, Brighton
The rest of the traditional contenders are priced far longer:
- Manchester United sits around +4000, reflecting doubts about Erik ten Hag’s project despite the presence of stars like Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro.
- Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa hover between +5000 and +6600. Both clubs aim for Champions League football, but neither has the depth to sustain a title push.
- Brighton, at an astronomical +20000, embodies the role of surprise package but is not considered a realistic title threat.
Relegation Candidates
At the other end of the table, newly promoted Burnley and Sunderland face relegation odds near +150000, making them the most vulnerable. For bettors, monitoring these teams in relegation markets could provide long-term opportunities.
FA Cup 2025–2026: Knockout Drama
The FA Cup adds another layer of betting intrigue. As always, its knockout format makes it a minefield for predictions, but bookmakers still favor the established giants.
- Manchester City (7/2, decimal 4.5) are joint favorites despite losing the 2025 final. Pep Guardiola has been clear about reclaiming this trophy, and with their squad depth, City will remain dangerous.
- Liverpool (9/2, decimal 5.5) are close behind. Klopp’s ability to rotate effectively gives them a strong chance to chase both domestic and European glory.
- Arsenal (7/2, decimal 4.5) complete the trio of frontrunners, with their improved squad depth making them formidable in a tournament where rotation is key.
Behind them, Chelsea (7/1), Newcastle (8/1), and Manchester United (8/1) are considered challengers. Meanwhile, Tottenham (14/1) and Aston Villa (16/1) sit as outsiders, while reigning champions Crystal Palace (20/1) are given little chance to repeat last year’s miracle.
For bettors, the FA Cup is about spotting value in upsets. Teams with strong benches and tactical depth—like Arsenal and City—are the safer plays, but don’t overlook the possibility of mid-table clubs making deep runs.
Top Premier League Players to Watch
Erling Haaland – Manchester City
The league’s highest-paid player and most prolific striker, Haaland is the central figure in City’s title ambitions. His record-breaking scoring pace and physical dominance make him both a nightmare for defenses and a focal point for bettors in first goalscorer and Golden Boot markets.
Mohamed Salah – Liverpool
Even in his thirties, Salah remains one of the world’s elite forwards. With 32 goals last season, his consistency in both the Premier League and Europe is unmatched. His new two-year contract ensures stability, making him a reliable option in season-long goalscorer bets.
Virgil van Dijk – Liverpool
The Dutch captain is arguably the best centre-back in Premier League history. His leadership and defensive solidity remain vital, particularly in tight matches where Liverpool must grind out results. His recent contract extension signals confidence in his longevity.
Casemiro – Manchester United
United’s defensive midfielder brings experience and composure. He remains pivotal in shielding the defense, and though United may not be title contenders, Casemiro’s influence could help secure European qualification.
Bruno Fernandes – Manchester United
As playmaker-in-chief, Fernandes drives United’s creativity, delivering both goals and assists. His form often dictates United’s performances, making him key for bettors analyzing assist markets and player performance props.
Kai Havertz – Arsenal
Thriving under Arteta, Havertz has evolved into a versatile attacker. His intelligent movement and technical quality make him integral to Arsenal’s system, and his improved finishing gives him real betting appeal in goalscorer markets.
Omar Marmoush – Manchester City
The Egyptian forward is the emerging wildcard in City’s squad. With seven goals in 17 league matches, he’s gaining attention as a breakout star. Bettors should track his rise in anytime scorer markets.
Betting Strategies and Takeaways
- Focus on value bets. Liverpool may be favorites, but Arsenal at +225 to +240 offers better payout potential given their consistency.
- Monitor live odds. Injuries, transfers, and form swings can dramatically shift markets. Staying updated is crucial.
- FA Cup upsets are real. While the top three dominate odds, clubs like Newcastle or Villa could deliver surprises.
- Player props matter. Beyond team markets, tracking form of stars like Haaland, Salah, and Havertz can provide profitable betting edges.
The 2025–26 season promises fireworks across both the Premier League and FA Cup. Liverpool, Arsenal, and Manchester City will battle fiercely for the league crown, while Chelsea and Newcastle lurk as dangerous outsiders. The FA Cup, with its knockout unpredictability, adds drama and opportunities for bettors willing to look beyond the obvious.
With stars like Haaland, Salah, Van Dijk, Casemiro, and Havertz shaping the narrative, this season isn’t just about football glory—it’s about spotting the right moments in the betting markets. As always, staying informed, analyzing context, and seizing value bets will separate the casual punter from the savvy expert.
