If you’ve ever watched a Premier League season and found yourself rooting for the team that’s not splashing millions on superstar transfers or flying around in private jets, you’re not alone. There’s something magical about the smaller clubs punching way above their weight and causing absolute chaos for the so-called giants.
So, which underdog teams should you keep an eye on this season? Whether they’ve just been promoted or are quietly building something special behind the scenes, here are five clubs that might just surprise everyone and maybe even ruin a few weekends for the top-six fans. Let’s be honest, that’s half the fun, right?
What Defines an Underdog in the Premier League?
Before we jump into naming names, let’s quickly break down what actually makes a team an underdog.
First off, underdogs usually have smaller budgets. They can’t just go out and buy a striker for £90 million because he scored a nice goal on YouTube. Instead, they scout smart, often grabbing overlooked players or academy talent. Think quality over flash.
Second, their stadiums are usually cozier than the massive ones owned by the big boys. It’s more likely you’ll see someone selling pies by hand at halftime than LED sushi bars in the VIP lounge.
Also, many underdogs have recently been promoted or have a history of bouncing between the Premier League and the Championship. That makes their journey even more impressive when they start climbing the table.
Lastly, there’s the “nobody saw it coming” factor. A team with no real superstar, but a rock-solid system, work ethic, and a manager who probably screams a lot during training. That’s the good stuff.
So, when we say “underdog,” we’re not just talking about budget. It’s the full package: the fight, the odds, the heart, and the chaos they bring to every match.
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Why Underdogs Matter in the EPL
Premier League underdogs are basically the popcorn in your movie small, light, and constantly making things exciting.
They’re the teams that make the league feel like anything can happen. While the usual suspects battle for silverware, these clubs are often busy wrecking predictions and turning draws into legendary wins. Remember when Leicester won the league in 2016? Bookmakers actually gave them 5000-1 odds. Someone probably bet on that instead of buying a coffee that day and now they’re rich.
But even if they don’t win the title, underdogs mess with everything. They can ruin a top-four chase with a last-minute goal, or end a 12-game unbeaten run for fun. They keep the league honest.
On top of that, underdog teams help uncover new stars. One moment you’ve never heard of a 19-year-old winger from Uruguay, and the next he’s dribbling through four defenders like he’s playing FIFA on beginner mode.
Most importantly, they give fans real hope. You don’t need a billion-dollar budget to dream big. Sometimes, all it takes is teamwork, belief, and one guy with a crazy left foot.
Top 5 Underdog Teams to Watch This Season
Alright, now for the real reason you’re here. Here are five teams that aren’t favorites by any stretch, but you’d be smart to keep an eye on them. Because if they go on a run, you’ll want to be the person who says, “I was backing them before it was cool.”
1. Luton Town
Yes, you read that right. Luton Town is back in the top flight for the first time since… well, a long time. Their stadium, Kenilworth Road, literally has houses built into the stands. It’s the only place where fans might ask a neighbor to pass them snacks from their kitchen during halftime.
This is a club with grit. They don’t have flashy signings or global marketing campaigns. What they do have is organization, spirit, and a fanbase that would probably cheer them on in a snowstorm with no socks.
Their biggest weapon? Belief. Luton plays with that “nothing to lose” energy that makes them a nightmare for big teams who think they’re in for an easy 3 points. And let’s be real if you’re a top team and you lose to Luton, your group chats are going to be brutal.
Their key players might not be household names yet, but give it time. Luton’s midfield has shown flashes of control and calm, while their defenders play like every tackle decides the fate of the world.
Keep an eye on them, because they might just turn your favorite team’s title race into a minor panic attack.
2. Nottingham Forest
Nottingham Forest might sound like a team from your uncle’s football stories and they kind of are. But they’re not stuck in the past. They’re rewriting their future in the Premier League, and this season, they’re bringing the drama.
Last season, Forest stayed up by the skin of their teeth. They signed more players than most people have contacts in their phones, and yes, it was chaotic. But now? Things are settling. Their squad has gelled. The chemistry’s cooking, and the manager finally doesn’t have to introduce himself to someone new at every training session.
Steve Cooper is no joke. He’s built a team that defends like it owes money and attacks like it’s trying to impress a scout watching from the stands. Forest may not dominate possession, but they make the most of their chances and their home ground, the City Ground, is becoming a fortress again.
Players like Morgan Gibbs-White are showing serious flair, and the squad as a whole looks way more balanced. They’ve started punching back, and not just in the metaphorical sense some of their tackles are straight-up medieval.
So while Forest might not be title contenders, they’re definitely not pushovers anymore. Think of them as the underdog that’s had just enough coffee to be dangerous.
3. Brentford
Brentford is like that quiet kid in class who suddenly drops a 98% on the hardest test and everyone’s shocked. But maybe we shouldn’t be.
This team knows exactly what it’s doing. They’ve got a data-driven strategy that makes them the Moneyballers of the Premier League. Every signing is calculated. Every tactic has a spreadsheet behind it. If there’s one club that proves you don’t need to be flashy to be fantastic, it’s Brentford.
Led by Thomas Frank (who looks like he could either coach football or front an indie band), they’ve turned into a team that not only survives but thrives in the Premier League. Their pressing game is tight, and they know how to frustrate bigger teams who expect an easy ride.
Even without big spending, they’ve uncovered talent gems. Ivan Toney was scoring for fun before his ban, and players like Bryan Mbeumo are stepping up hard. They make smart moves in the transfer window and keep the dressing room vibe tight.
Their home stadium might be small, but it’s loud. And when they smell weakness, they pounce. Brentford isn’t here to make up numbers. They’re here to ruin your prediction league.
4. Burnley
Wait, Burnley? Didn’t they get relegated? Yeah, but this isn’t the Burnley you remember.
Gone is the old-school, long-ball version. Now, with Vincent Kompany at the wheel (yes, that Vincent Kompany), Burnley plays actual football. Like, passing-on-the-ground, build-from-the-back, silky-dribbling football. Crazy, right?
Under Kompany, Burnley tore up the Championship last season. They didn’t just win it they dominated it. And while making the leap to the Premier League is always tough, this squad is full of confidence and young players who are fearless. Honestly, they play like they forgot they’re supposed to be nervous.
It’s not all sunshine, though. They’re going to take some hits. But what’s different this time is that Burnley can hit back. Their midfield controls tempo, their wingers are aggressive, and Kompany’s leadership shows in every match.
Burnley 2.0 is still scrappy but now they’re scrappy and stylish. Kind of like a bulldog in a suit.
5. Bournemouth
Bournemouth’s return to the Premier League could’ve been quiet. Instead, they chose violence (on the scoreboard, don’t worry). They’re fast, tricky, and not afraid to go toe-to-toe with bigger sides.
This team may not have global stars, but they’ve got players with real heart. Their front line moves like it’s powered by Red Bull. If your defense isn’t focused for a full 90, Bournemouth will absolutely sneak in and ruin your clean sheet dreams.
Their new manager has brought fresh ideas. They’re pressing higher, keeping the ball better, and looking sharper all over the pitch. It’s clear they didn’t come up just to make friends. They came up to stay.
What makes Bournemouth dangerous is that they play with house money. No one expects them to dominate possession or play perfect football but they will catch you napping. And then they’ll post the highlights on their Instagram with way too many emojis.
They’ve already pulled off a few upsets and nearly pulled off a few more. Give this team time, and they might just become everyone’s second-favorite club.
Honorable Mentions
Some teams just missed the top five but still deserve a nod.
Crystal Palace
They’re that awkward middle-ground team—not quite underdogs, not quite favorites. But with Eberechi Eze and Michael Olise tearing down the wings, they’re a threat. Every season, they flirt with brilliance. One day they might commit.
Sheffield United
Back in the Premier League and already causing problems. They’re physical, direct, and willing to make every match a fight. You don’t want to play them after a long week.
Fulham
Not quite “underdog” anymore, but still often overlooked. Aleksandar Mitrović might scare defenders in their dreams, and their midfield can actually keep the ball. Dangerous combo.
What Makes This Season Unique for Underdogs?
A lot of weird stuff is happening this year that plays right into underdog hands.
For one, the fixture list is wild. With tight schedules, big clubs juggling European matches, and more international breaks than a UN summit, the “smaller” teams are catching tired giants off guard.
There’s also been a lot of managerial turnover. Some big clubs are still adjusting. Meanwhile, underdogs with long-term managers are benefiting from stability. That’s rare and valuable.
Plus, injuries and squad depth are more important than ever. The bigger clubs are losing key players left and right, and underdogs with lean, focused squads are slipping through the chaos and picking up points.
And of course, this season’s transfer market has been bonkers. Some teams didn’t strengthen like they should’ve. Meanwhile, underdogs are grabbing underrated players who turn out to be absolute steals.
In short, it’s the perfect storm for a surprise run. All it takes is a little momentum and suddenly, a team that was predicted to finish 17th is sniffing around the top 10.
Final Thoughts: Can One of These Teams Do a Leicester?
Alright, let’s be real. Another Leicester-style miracle probably won’t happen soon. That was once-in-a-lifetime stuff.
But can one of these teams break into the top 6? Absolutely. Can one of them qualify for Europe? Easily. Can one of them knock out a giant in a crucial game and make half the internet explode? 100%.
The Premier League isn’t just about the rich clubs and their trophy cabinets. It’s about the hustle, the heartbreak, and the total madness of watching the little guy land a big punch.
So next time you’re watching a match and see one of these underdogs, don’t look away. That might be the moment they shock the world or at least make someone throw their TV remote.
FAQs
What is an underdog team in the Premier League?
An underdog is a team that’s not expected to win due to smaller budgets, less history in the top flight, or a lower profile but still puts up a fight.
Has an underdog ever won the Premier League?
Yes, Leicester City did the unthinkable in the 2015–16 season. They had 5000-1 odds and still pulled it off. Absolute madness.
Which Premier League team has the lowest budget?
It changes, but newly promoted teams like Luton Town or Sheffield United usually have the smallest budgets in the league.
Can a newly promoted team finish in the top 10?
It’s tough but not impossible. Leeds did it a couple seasons ago. With the right mix of talent and tactics, it’s very doable.
Who are the best underdog players to watch this season?
Names like Morgan Gibbs-White (Forest), Bryan Mbeumo (Brentford), and Carlton Morris (Luton) are worth watching they might become stars faster than you expect.
