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Struggles of Premier League's 'Big Six' raise questions about their dominance

BBC Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 16, 2026, 5:53 AM

Last updated Oct 16, 2026

Struggles of Premier League's 'Big Six' raise questions about their dominance

Summary

The traditional Premier League 'Big Six'—Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United, and Tottenham Hotspur—may be seeing a decline in their on-field dominance. Recent seasons have seen Tottenham and Manchester United near the relegation zone, while clubs like Aston Villa and Brighton have performed well. Manchester City faces uncertainty after breaching financial rules, potentially reshaping the competitive. Sources highlight a shift, with five of the top six places occupied by non-'Big Six' clubs in the last three years, indicating a trend away from the established elite. This season remains early, and the standings could fluctuate significantly as teams adjust.

Source Links

BBC Sport

Key Details

•Tottenham and Manchester United struggling near relegation zone
•Five of the top six clubs in recent years are not traditional elite
•Manchester City faces potential penalties for financial breaches
•Aston Villa and Brighton show improved performances
•The current season is still in its early stages

Latest Updates

5:53 AMBBC Sport — Does the Premier League 'Big Six' still exist?

What they're saying

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For years the Premier League has had a defined 'Big Six', comprised of Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur., but could this era be coming to an end?
— BBC Sport

Related Teams & Leagues

Arsenal Chelsea Liverpool Manchester City Manchester United Tottenham Hotspur EPL Soccer