Former England and Real Madrid striker Michael Owen has identified Manchester City and Manchester United as the two clubs most likely to challenge Arsenal for the Premier League title next season, even as both clubs prepare for significant change heading into 2026-27.
Arsenal clinched the 2025-26 Premier League title for the first time in 22 years, with Manchester City unable to catch them despite finishing as runners-up. The Gunners will lift the trophy at Selhurst Park on Sunday in their final match of the season against Crystal Palace.
Speaking to Metro UK, Owen argued that despite City’s failure to retain the title, they remain a serious threat. He pointed to their cup form as evidence of resilience, noting the club could return stronger next term. Manchester City won both the English Football League (EFL) Carabao Cup and the Football Association (FA) Cup this season, becoming the first English club to win every match across both domestic cup competitions.
Owen also expressed confidence in the newly permanent Manchester United head coach. Carrick took charge on an interim basis in January and led United to 11 wins in 16 games, propelling them to a third-place finish in the Premier League and Champions League qualification. Manchester United subsequently confirmed Carrick on a permanent contract running until 2028.
Owen reserved particular caution about Liverpool, stating they are “not there just yet” in the title conversation, a notable verdict given that Liverpool won the Premier League in 2024-25, just one season before Arsenal reclaimed the crown.
The summer ahead promises considerable upheaval at both Manchester clubs. Pep Guardiola’s departure from Manchester City was confirmed on May 22, the same day Carrick was announced as United’s permanent manager, reshaping the managerial landscape across the city simultaneously.
Arsenal, meanwhile, remain in contention for further silverware. The club faces Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) Champions League final in Budapest on May 30, seeking their first European Cup title in 140 years of history.
