For years, the Premier League’s so-called Big Six felt untouchable. Manchester City, Liverpool, Arsenal, Manchester United, Chelsea and Tottenham always finished near the top, qualified for Europe and bounced back when things went wrong.
This season, that assumption doesn’t hold up.
Tottenham are down in 14th—a position that can’t be explained by one bad run. Reigning league champions Liverpool, while still competitive, have shown cracks that would have been unthinkable a few years back, and in turn, messed up extensive EPL odds. Meanwhile, clubs outside that established group aren’t just competing with the traditional powers anymore. They’re outperforming them.
So, here’s the question: is the Big Six still a useful way of understanding the Premier League, or are we watching it slowly lose its meaning?
3 Clubs Who Have Been on the Outside of the Big Six
Newcastle United
Newcastle’s rise has been driven by clear investment and a change in ownership. Since becoming Saudi-owned, the club has combined financial backing with a more disciplined approach to recruitment and planning.
Key signings over the past few seasons – Bruno Guimaraes, Nick Woltemade and Sandro Tonali – have lifted standards across the squad, helping Newcastle secure Champions League qualification and re-establish themselves among the league’s top sides. That progress was backed up last season with a Carabao Cup win to end their seven-decade trophy drought, providing silverware to match the momentum.
St James’ Park remains one of the Premier League’s biggest and most imposing stadiums, while the fanbase has quickly reconnected with a team that now reflects its ambition.
Aston Villa
Aston Villa’s progress under Unai Emery has been built on structure, coaching and players who fit a clear plan. This isn’t a side relying on one standout name but a squad that feels balanced and well-drilled.
Ollie Watkins has developed into one of the league’s most reliable forwards, Morgan Rogers has added energy and directness in attack, and Matty Cash continues to give Villa width and intensity from full-back. The results reflect that stability – Villa currently have a win rate of around 61% this season, a mark that puts them firmly in the conversation with the top sides.
European qualification now feels like a realistic expectation rather than an overachievement, and Villa Park remains a powerful home ground. Combined with the club’s history and growing confidence, Villa no longer look like outsiders pushing for relevance.
Everton and Crystal Palace
Everton and Crystal Palace may not be chasing the very top of the table this season, but both show just how competitive the Premier League has become. Over recent seasons, Everton have battled through financial strain and points deductions to stay in the division. This season marked a turning point for the club as they played at their new stadium for the first time. With a capacity larger than Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge, it’s a clear statement of intent and a glimpse of a more stable future after years of uncertainty.
Palace’s league form has been patchy, yet they have a landmark achievement others in the traditional Big Six can only envy: they lifted the FA Cup last season with a 1-0 win over Manchester City, the first major trophy in the club’s history and a moment that showed they can beat the very best on the biggest stage.
