Former Arsenal striker Alan Smith has declared the Premier League title race a straight fight between Arsenal and Manchester City, dismissing Chelsea and Manchester United as genuine contenders for the 2026-27 season's top prize.

Speaking to Metro via BestBettingSites.co.uk, Smith argued that only his former club and Manchester City possess the consistency and quality required to mount a sustained championship challenge.

City the only real threat, says Smith

"I think Man City are the key challenger to Arsenal," Smith said. "Obviously, they have a new manager, so that puts a little question mark in there about how Maresca can settle with his players, but I still see them being the only challenger. There's a whole host of others just below that, but I'd say it's between Arsenal and City at the moment."

Smith was unequivocal when it came to his title pick. "I've got to go for Arsenal winning it again — let's hope," he said, placing Manchester City as runners-up in his predicted standings.

The rest of the top six

Despite ruling out Manchester United from the title conversation, Smith did not dismiss them entirely. He acknowledged that Michael Carrick is still finding his footing as manager, and tipped United to finish third — an improvement they will be hoping to build on after last season.

Liverpool, in Smith's estimation, would come in fourth, while Chelsea — under Xabi Alonso and backed by a promising transfer window — could enjoy a much stronger campaign than their previous one. "They have made some good signings," Smith noted, slotting Chelsea into fifth.

For the final European spot, Smith pointed to Aston Villa as favourites to claim sixth place.

The season kicks off on August 21

The 2026-27 Premier League campaign gets under way on August 21, with champions Arsenal welcoming newly-promoted Coventry City to their ground. A winning start would set a powerful early tone for a side determined to retain their title.