The Premier League has reached its first international break of the 2026-27 season, with five matches played and several early talking points across the division. Some teams have made impressive starts, while others already have plenty of work to do. The rankings after five games provide an early indication of the challenges and opportunities facing each team. Teams like Arsenal and Manchester City are off to a strong start, while others like Tottenham Hotspur are struggling.
Arsenal have made a solid start to their title defence, with a rating of 7/10. Their 3-0 defeat at Brighton exposed some weaknesses, but they also survived a penalty scare against Sunderland before suffering their first league loss. Brighton, on the other hand, have been one of the most entertaining sides in the league, scoring 16 goals in their opening five matches. Their 3-0 victory over Arsenal underlined their attacking threat, earning them a 9/10 rating.
Manchester City have made a perfect start with five wins from five, earning them a 9/10 rating. Erling Haaland’s goalscoring form has added to the optimism around their title challenge. Liverpool remain unbeaten but have yet to hit their best form, with three consecutive clean sheets providing encouragement. Chelsea began strongly under Xabi Alonso but have now lost two of their past three matches, including a heavy defeat by Brentford.
Brentford have enjoyed an impressive unbeaten start, earning them an 8/10 rating. They demolished both Tottenham and Chelsea, raising questions about whether they can maintain their form and challenge for European football. Hull City have also made an excellent start, collecting eight points from five difficult fixtures. Victories over Manchester United and draws against Aston Villa and Chelsea have particularly impressed.
Tottenham Hotspur have endured the most difficult start of the teams assessed, with a rating of 2/10. Despite spending more than £300m during the summer, they failed to score in their opening four league matches. Supporters will expect a significant improvement when the Premier League resumes after the international break. Coventry City ended a difficult run with a 1-0 victory at Nottingham Forest, providing a platform for a stronger run after the international break.
Everton have shown resilience during the opening weeks of the campaign, earning them a 6/10 rating. Despite a difficult transfer window, David Moyes has made Everton a difficult side to beat. Fulham have picked up useful draws against Liverpool and Manchester United but are still searching for their first victory. Their upcoming fixtures could provide an opportunity to improve their position.
The three-week international break offers every team an opportunity to regroup before the season resumes on 10 October. With five matches gone, the table is already beginning to provide some early clues about the challenges and opportunities facing each team. Teams will look to use the break to address weaknesses and build on strengths, setting the stage for a competitive second half of the season.
Key points
- Arsenal, Brighton, and Manchester City are making strong starts to the Premier League season.
- Tottenham Hotspur are struggling after a difficult summer of spending.
- The international break provides an opportunity for teams to regroup and improve.
