Arsenal supporters wearing jerseys and waving flag gather to celebrate the club's Premier League title win, marking its first league championship in 22 years in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, on May 24, 2026. (Gerald Anderson /AFP)
If you thought the wild street celebrations that greeted Arsenal’s historic 2025/26 Premier League title win marked the peak of Kenyan football fanaticism, think again. With the new 2026/27 season kicking off this Friday, August 21, local joints have already begun setting up. From Mombasa to Busia, the entire country is buzzing with anticipation, as WhatsApp banter groups and estate corners have once again transformed into full-blown football debate centres.
Arsenal’s ruthless 3-0 demolition of Manchester City in the 2026 FA Community Shield at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium on Sunday last week only added fuel to the fire, sending a loud and clear message that Mikel Arteta’s machine is primed for a title defence. But with several managerial changes, including Pep Guardiola departing City, Xabi Alonso taking the reins at Stamford Bridge, and Andoni Iraola stepping into Anfield, every EPL fanbase in Kenya believes they have a shot this season.
In Nairobi, Arsenal faithful are radiating the unshakeable posture of reigning champions. Arteta is now the longest-serving manager in the top flight, a great example of how much of the Gunners’ major rivals have hit the tactical reset button. The Standard Sports sampled some fan views in the country ahead of the new season:
ARSENAL
Morris Owino, Arsenal diehard based in Nairobi: "I think Arsenal will retain the 2026/27 Premier League title. Man United, City, Chelsea, and Liverpool all have new coaches, while Arteta has been there for a while, giving him valuable experience and stability. I see Arsenal winning the league again, with City second, Chelsea third, and United fourth, and possibly two more trophies for Arsenal.'
Felix Ondula, Kisumu Arsenal fan: “I feel like Arsenal will defend the title. Man City would have mounted a challenge, but from what I saw in the Community Shield, I just don’t see it. Liverpool might actually give Arsenal a run for it; if they embrace Iraola’s style quickly enough, they could be a serious challenge. I don’t see Manchester United anywhere near the top two, mainly because of their lack of squad depth. Chelsea, I think Alonso needs at least two seasons to make them really solid. Arsenal are still favourites; we could go back-to-back.”
MANCHESTER UNITED