The Irish Premiership 2026-27 season kicks off with a north Belfast derby between Cliftonville and Crusaders, 104 days after Larne lifted the Gibson Cup. Manager Gary Haveron aims for a fourth title in five years, but the departure of star striker Andy Ryan leaves a significant goalscoring void despite strong European form.

Runners-up Coleraine have impressed in the transfer window, adding Northern Ireland international Conor Mc Menamin and Derry City left-back Ben Doherty. However, a growing injury list, including captain Mark Coyle (ACL), clouds their title challenge. The Bannsiders also suffered an 8-0 aggregate Europa Conference League exit to HJK Helsinki.

Belfast's 'Big Two' have had quiet summers. Linfield and Glentoran combined for just seven signings. Glentoran rely on league top scorer Pat Hoban, while Linfield hope Kieran Offord's return and new signing Kobei Moore can address a goal deficit that saw them score 12 fewer than top-four rivals last season.

Newly promoted Limavady and mid-table Bangor face 'second season syndrome' concerns. Meanwhile, veteran managers David Jeffrey (Portadown), Stephen Baxter (Carrick Rangers), and Oran Kearney (Ballymena United) — with 58 years combined experience — all face pivotal seasons after busy or turbulent summers.