The analytical portal Opta has released an alternative table for the 2026/27 English Premier League season based on expected positions (xG) after the first five matches.
The supercomputer's mathematical model has made significant corrections to the teams' standings. At the summit of the table, a dramatic switch has unfolded: current leaders Manchester City have dropped to second place, conceding the top spot to Arsenal. Brentford now sits in third, one place higher than their actual position.
In terms of early season disappointments, Manchester United has emerged as the major underperformer. Currently languishing in 12th place in the real standings, their performance metrics indicate they ought to be sitting in fourth. Meanwhile, the surprise package Brighton, currently in the top three, is actually overachieving; their expected position sits at just ninth.
Nottingham Forest is predicted to rise from 13th to 7th, while Chelsea, struggling defensively, is forecasted to fall from 10th to 14th. Bottom-placed Tottenham Hotspur is actually performing at a level that suggests they should be in 13th. Newcastle United, despite presently occupying ninth, has been deemed the worst team in the league according to expected metrics.
