Fulham's 2026-27 season is shaping up to be a crucial one for the Cottagers, who are looking to achieve European football under new manager Alvaro Arbeloa. With a squad that needs work and a history of struggling on the road, Arbeloa's tactics will be put to the test.
What happened?
Fulham finished 12th in the Premier League last season, 26 points behind leaders Arsenal. They scored 43 goals and conceded 46, with a goal difference of -3. The team's next fixture is against Arsenal on February 20, 2027.
Why it matters for Fulham
Arbeloa's possession-based game with high pressing and intensity will be crucial in Fulham's bid for European football. The team's key players, including Ryan Sessegnon and Josh King, will need to step up and deliver consistent performances.
What comes next?
Fulham's upcoming season will be a test of Arbeloa's tactics and the team's ability to adapt to his style. With a busy schedule ahead, the Cottagers will need to be focused and determined to achieve their goals.
Lessons from last year
Fulham's struggles on the road were a major concern last season. The team won only four away games, and their away record was one of the worst in the league. Arbeloa will need to address this issue if Fulham are to achieve European football.
Key player
Ryan Sessegnon has shown glimpses of his potential since returning to Fulham in 2024. At 26, he has the potential to be a key player for the team, but he will need to deliver consistent performances to help Fulham achieve their goals.
The Coach
Alvaro Arbeloa is a gamble, but an exciting one. Having cut his coaching teeth with Real Madrid's Under-14s, U19s, and Castilla before a short stint with the senior team, he prefers a possession-based game with high pressing, intensity, and the desire to dominate matches.
Last Season's Results
Fulham finished 11th in the Premier League last season, with 44 points from 32 games. They won 13 games, drew 5, and lost 14. In the FA Cup, they reached the fifth round, while in the League Cup, they were eliminated in the quarter-finals.
Top Scorer
Harry Wilson bagged 11 goals in all competitions for Fulham last season, and is one of the Premier League's cleanest ball-strikers. Unfortunately, both him and veteran bagsman Jimenez left the club this summer.
Most Likely To...
Lose his shorts during the game: Calvin Bassey. Fulham's all-white kit exposed how low the defender wears his shorts – at times, there were fears he might lose them completely. Adidas sent him some footwear with the note, "Eyes on the boots, not the glutes."
Least Likely To...
Score a goal: Sander Berge. The Norwegian midfielder's last goal came at Craven Cottage in 2025.
League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 12th in Premier League, 44 pts, 13W-5D-14L from 32 games, recent form LWDLW. Goals this season: 43 scored, 46 conceded (-3 goal difference). Title race: 26 points behind leaders Arsenal. Next fixture: vs Arsenal (away, 2027-02-20) (1st in the table).
