Insights from Watching All 20 Premier League Teams This Season
John Brewin observed all 20 Premier League clubs throughout this season, providing a detailed overview of current trends and team trajectories.
The impact of analytics on the game is notable, especially in set-piece situations where long throws and corners have grown in importance. Players like Brentford's Michael Kayode and Antoine Semenyo stand out, while Liverpool's Aaron Briggs has been criticized for set-piece struggles.
Despite a dominance of data-driven, playbook strategies that limit creativity, some artistry persists with players such as Adam Wharton and Jérémy Doku. There are even rumors of AI-assisted team selections being used by two clubs.
Fan experience has evolved with increased attention to treating supporters as customers, exemplified by stadiums like Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Nonetheless, issues remain, including widespread dissatisfaction, controversy around VAR, and the criticized role of referees. Liverpool fans have adopted Dean Martin’s "Sway" as a chant, highlighting fan culture developments.
Injuries during stoppage time appear unusually frequent, hinting that player fatigue is not yet fully mitigated by analytics. Teams are focusing keenly on second-ball recoveries and set-piece efficiency as critical competitive edges.
Arsenal's performance has been a highlight, particularly a decisive header by Gabriel Magalhães from Bukayo Saka’s corner that helped the team rebound to dominance after a nervous first half against Aston Villa.
Promoted clubs like Sunderland and Leeds have defied expectations, while Brighton and Bournemouth face challenges breaking into higher tiers. Liverpool’s rebuilding effort is underperforming, and traditional giants Manchester United and Chelsea are struggling. Wolves are in decline, and despite Crystal Palace’s 2025 success, internal conflicts have cast a shadow.
Manchester City and Erling Haaland exemplify the 2025 Premier League model, combining physical strength and productivity, with Pep Guardiola preserving their flair. Emerging talents like Rayan Cherki represent contemporary mavericks, while Jérémy Doku and Adam Wharton remain among the few artistic contributors in the Premier League landscape.
