The 2026-27 European soccer season is underway, with the Premier League kicking off as defending champions Arsenal host newly promoted Coventry City. Multiple leagues are beginning action, including Serie A, Ligue 1, La Liga, and the Bundesliga. Fifteen ESPN contributors have weighed in with their predictions for silverware, surprise teams, and bold calls to revisit at season's end.

In the Premier League, Arsenal is the overwhelming favorite to win the title with 13 of 15 votes. Contributors cite their strong roster reinforcement and the transition at Manchester City following Pep Guardiola's departure. Chelsea, Manchester City, and Manchester United are predicted to round out the top four.

Erling Haaland is the unanimous pick for the Golden Boot, despite potential growing pains for Manchester City under new manager Enzo Maresca. The team's slow start in the Community Shield loss to Arsenal raised concerns, but Haaland's goal-scoring track record remains unmatched.

Oliver Glasner of Nottingham Forest is the most likely manager to be sacked first, according to the panel. Contributors point to the club's challenging ownership situation rather than Glasner's capabilities as the primary concern.