A COMPLETE preview of the 2026/27 William Hill Premiership
Millions of eyes from all around the world were fixed on the Scottish Premiership last season as Hearts bid to end the Glasgow-centric dominance that has reigned over Scotland since the 80s. Celtic got the title over the line at the last minute, which many will find disappointing, but the global attention on Scottish football can only be a good thing. Hearts’ weren’t the only underdog story of last season with Motherwell and Falkirk providing excellent stories in their own right. Whilst the 2026/27 season certainly has a hard act to follow in terms of entertainment factor, here’s everything you need to know about the league heading into the next season. Aberdeen: It’s a first full season in charge for Stephen Robinson who replaced Jimmy Thelin in March. It’s always hard to predict how Aberdeen will fair as life post Derrick McInnes can best be described as a rollercoaster. Aberdeen have flirted with relegation the past few years before proving to be too big to go down. But of course, there is the third place season of 2022/23 and the Scottish Cup win in 2025 to counter. It’s been a busy summer in the North East with 10 signings thus far. Stephen Robinson has re-united with Connor Ronan from their time at St. Mirren. They’ll hope the force is with them after signing Obi Wan Kenobi’s great-grandson in Nesta Guinness-Walker, Tony Yogane’s positive loan at Dundee has rewarded him with a move to Aberdeen. They’ve also added household Premiership names in Lewis Mayo and Brad Lyons to name a few. Incomings: Connor Ronan, Alexander Briedl, Lewis Mayo, Brad Lyons, Toyosi Olusanya, Nesta Guinness-Walker, Dan Happe, Ayoub Mouloua, Marius Müller, Tony Yogane. Outgoings: Topi Keskinen, Alexander Jensen, Graeme Shinnie, Ryan Duncan, Marko Lazetic, Tom Mcintrye, Per Kristian Bratviet, Elvis Bwomono, Vicente Besuijen, Alfie Stewart (loan), Alfie Bavidge (loan). What to expect: Mid-table finish. Celtic: Celtic are now five-in-a-row champions, but it somehow feels like a dark cloud is hanging over the club. Despite the drama from the end of last season, it’s fair to say that last season’s Celtic side are probably the worst title winners in recent memory. Although, that speaks to just high the bar is for Celtic. Martin O’Neill will lead Celtic out for another season after signing a further one-year deal, somewhat delaying another managerial appointment. Despite criticisms surrounding their performances or style of play, O’Neill’s Celtic have shown that they can really turn it up when it matters, You can look ash their second half dismantlement of St. Mirren in the Scottish Cup semi-final, or snatching the title from Hearts with just minutes remaining, or their comeback against Rangers in the split and much, much more. Unfortunately for Celtic, the fall-out between the fans and the board continues after a lack of signings, with Celtic fans standing firmly behind the ‘not another penny’ campaign until they see change. Failures to secure new deals for Marcelo Sarrachi and Kelechi Iheanacho only add fuel to the fire too. It truly feels like a lot of discontent hangs over the club at the minute. Incomings: Camilo Duran Outgoings: Luis Palma, Maik Nawrocki, Kelechi Iheanacho, Stephen Welsh, Hayato Inamura, Josh Clarke, Shin Yamada (loan), Kasper Schmeichel (retired) What to expect: Title contenders Dundee: When Stephen Pressely was appointed as Dundee boss last season, many eyebrows were raised from Dundee fans and neutrals alike, many even tipped them to go down, but Pressely kept them up at a canter. They’ll be without last season’s star man in Luke Graham after the defender departed for Stoke in a club record deal. Losses of Trevor Carson and Jon McCracken in the goalkeeping department may force the club to look for a replacement between the posts. Incomings: Idris Odutayo, Zan Besir, Alan Forrest, Ryan Finnigan, Owen Bevan Outgoings: Luke Graham, Jon McCracken, Ethan Ingram, Clark Robertson, Paul Digby, Billy Koumetio, Emile Acquah, Lewis Montsma, Trevor Carson (retired) What to expect: Bottom-half/ relegation candidates Dundee United: Much like his former club Aberdeen, Jim Goodwin’s recent career is another rollercoaster. When he took the Tannadice helm in 2023 the club was as good as relegated. Goodwin led them back to the Premiership at the first time of asking, before securing European football upon their Premiership return, even going toe-to-toe with Rapid Vienna in the conference league. They seemed to revert to the mode with a bottom six finish last year. It’s been a busy window on the other side of Dens Road so far. Jack Walton has returned to the club, there’s also been promising signings from Australia whilst Dylan Tait is an impressive signing from their competitors in Falkirk. Incomings: Jesse Randall, Lachlan Rose, Joshua Rawlins, Dylan Tait, Michael Forbes, Jordan Amissah, Jack Walton, Medhi Merghem, Idjessi Metsoko (loan) Outgoings: Craig Sibbald, Ryan Strain, Ashely Maynard-Brewer, Johnny Russell, Kristijan Trapanovski, Dave Richards, Lewis O’Connell, Owen Stiron (loan), Ruairidh Adams (loan) What to expect: Mid-table finish Falkirk: Falkirk returned to the Premiership after 16 years last season, marking a double-promotion with a top-six finish. A side who built on solid home performances last season and nearly secured European football in the process. Falkirk are on the up at the moment and they can build on this success. Or, whatever goes up can come straight back down. They’ve lost star men from last season in Barney Stewart and Calvin Miller, Filip Lissah hasn’t returned to the club following an impressive loan spell. It could well get worse with John McGlynn being one of the leading contenders to replace Steve Clarke as Scotland boss. Incomings: Lewis Nielson, Jack McMillan, Deniss Melniks, Craig Sibbald, Scott Tanser, Jay Hogarth, Ethan Laidlaw, Paul McGovern Outgoings: Barney Stewart, Calvin Miller, Dylan Tait, Jamie Sneddon, Gary Oliver, Brian Graham, Rhys Walker, Sean Mackie What to expect: Bottom-half finish Heart Of Midlothian: Hearts were mere minutes away from becoming the first non Old-Firm cub to win the league in over 40-years. Derrick McInnes has since departed for Rangers and its a completely new look Hearts side for the Wouter Vrancken era. Numerous new signings
Everything Rangers supporters need to know about Europa League opponents Jagiellonia Białystok
Rangers face Jagiellonia Białystok in the Europa League third qualifying phase. Here is everything you need to know about the Polish side. Jagiellonia Białystok, who play in the Ekstraklasa league in Poland, finished third out of 16 teams last season, granting them a place in the third qualifying stage of the Europa League. Jagiellonia are ranked 86th in the UEFA club coefficient rankings. Their top scorer last season Afimico Pululu left the club earlier in the summer following the expiration of his contract. But Spanish veteran, Jesus Imaz scored 18 times last campaign. They get back to league action on Saturday, giving them two competitive matches before they host Rangers at the Chorten Arena on the 6th of August. The Chorten Arena hosts just over 22,000 people. However, it is well-known for its hostile atmosphere. Jagiellonia have only lost twice at home in Europe over the past two seasons. The club’s most successful season came in the 2023/24 campaign, when they won the Ekstraklasa for the first time. The Polish side have advanced to the later stages in the Europa Conference League in the last two seasons. In 2025 they progressed all the way to the Quarter-Finals, where they were knocked out by Spanish side Real Betis. Last year however, they were dispatched by Fiorentina in the knock-out play off stages. It’s a fair journey for Derek McIness’ men, with Białystok being approximately 1500 miles from Glasgow. It’s also around a two-hour coach trip from the capital city Warsaw, where most supporters and the team will likely travel too. The match is over two-legs, with the second-leg being played at Ibrox the following Thursday.
Who will your Scottish team face next in Europe?
Rangers, Hearts, Hibernian, and Motherwell will discover their next European opponents this Monday, as the draw takes place for the third qualifying rounds of the Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League. Hearts face Sturm Graz in the 2nd Round of Champions League Qualifying. Victory over the Austrians could leave matchups against Olympiacos (GRE), Lyon (FRA), Bodo/Glimt (NOR) or Fenerbahce (TUR)/Gornik Zabrze (POL). A defeat will see them drop into the Europa League bracket, to face either St Gallen (SWI)/Benfica (POR), Twente (NED)/Ferencvaros (HUN) or Qarabag (AZE)/CSKA Sofia (BUL). Derek McInnes will lead his Rangers side into the 3rd Round of Europa League Qualification as a seeded team. They will meet either Hammarby (SWE)/Anderlecht (BEL), Hajduk Split (CRO)/Pafos (CYP), Tromso (NOR)/Hradec Kralove (CZE) or Jagellonia Bialystok (POL). Motherwell and Hibs begin Conference League qualifying this Thursday. Motherwell face Havnar Boltfelag of the Faroe Islands; victory will see them progress to face LNZ Cherkasy (UKR)/Gent (BEL), Besiktas (TUR)/FC Midtjylland (DEN), HJK Helsinki (FIN)/Coleraine (NIR), Twente (NED)/Ferencvaros (HUN) or RFS (Lat)/Vestri (ISL). David Gray’s team are back in Europe again, backing up their 3rd place finish with 4th place last season. FK Malisheva await in the 2nd Round; a victory over the Kosovo side could see matchups with NK Bravo (SVN)/KF Shkendija (MKD), FC Santa Coloma (AND)/SK Rapid (AUT), Rakow (POL)/Valetta (MLT), NK Rijeka (CRO)/Derry City (IRL) or FC Polissya (UKR)/FC Copenhagen (DEN). The draw commences on Monday 20th July.
The 22 Loudest Football Stadiums in Britain Ranked
Few topics in football divide opinion quite like atmosphere. Every supporter believes their home ground is the loudest, most intimidating place to visit, whether it’s a Premier League giant, a historic EFL venue or one of Scotland’s iconic stadiums. While success on the pitch often helps create noise, the very best atmospheres are built on passionate supporters, tradition and unwavering backing regardless of results. Capacity doesn’t always matter either – some of the loudest grounds in Britain are among the smallest. With that in mind, SNN Sports has ranked the 22 best football atmospheres across Britain. 22. St Mary’s Stadium – Southampton St Mary’s can often be overlooked when discussing Britain’s loudest grounds, but Southampton supporters know how to create an atmosphere when the occasion demands it. Big league fixtures and promotion battles have shown just how vocal the Saints faithful can be. 21. Valley Parade – Bradford City Bradford City continue to attract impressive crowds, and Valley Parade has become one of League One’s most intimidating venues. The Bantams’ supporters rarely let the noise drop and have played a huge part in the club’s recent resurgence. 20. Home Park – Plymouth Argyle Few clubs boast away support like Plymouth Argyle, and the Green Army bring that same passion to Home Park. The long journey for visiting teams only adds to the challenge of playing in Devon. 19. CBS Arena – Coventry City Coventry City’s recent success has brought the CBS Arena back to life. The Sky Blues supporters have rediscovered their voice and turned their home ground into a difficult place for opponents. 18. Molineux – Wolverhampton Wanderers The South Bank remains one of English football’s most iconic stands. When Wolves are on the front foot, Molineux produces an intense atmosphere capable of lifting the home side and unsettling visitors. 17. St Andrew’s @ Knighthead Park – Birmingham City A renewed sense of optimism has transformed Birmingham City’s home atmosphere. Bigger crowds and growing belief around the club have helped make St Andrew’s one of the Championship’s loudest grounds. 16. Old Trafford – Manchester United Despite often being criticised for its quieter moments, Old Trafford can still produce a special atmosphere. When the Stretford End is fully behind the team, the noise echoes around one of football’s most famous stadiums. 15. The Den – Millwall Few away trips feel as hostile as a visit to The Den. Millwall supporters have built a reputation for creating one of the most intimidating matchday environments in Britain. 14. Hill Dickinson Stadium – Everton Everton’s new home has made an immediate impression. Although Goodison Park will always hold a special place in supporters’ hearts, the atmosphere at the Hill Dickinson Stadium is already proving to be among the Premier League’s best. 13. Pride Park – Derby County Derby County supporters consistently turn out in huge numbers and create an impressive wall of noise. Pride Park remains one of the standout atmospheres outside the Premier League. 12. Fratton Park – Portsmouth Steep stands, passionate supporters and an old-school feel combine to make Fratton Park one of England’s toughest away days. Portsmouth fans rarely disappoint when it comes to backing their side. 11. Tynecastle Park – Heart of Midlothian Tynecastle is one of Scottish football’s true football grounds. With supporters sitting close to the pitch and packed stands on every side, Hearts fans generate a relentless atmosphere that has made life difficult for countless visiting teams over the years. 10. City Ground – Nottingham Forest The City Ground has enjoyed a new lease of life since Nottingham Forest’s return to the Premier League. The atmosphere generated by the home support regularly creates one of England’s best matchday experiences. 9. Hillsborough – Sheffield Wednesday One of the country’s most historic stadiums continues to produce unforgettable atmospheres. Hillsborough remains a fortress whenever Sheffield Wednesday supporters are in full voice. 8. Selhurst Park – Crystal Palace Crystal Palace’s Holmesdale Fanatics are renowned across Europe for their constant backing, displays and chants. Selhurst Park’s compact design only helps amplify the noise. 7. St James’ Park – Newcastle United Football means everything in Newcastle, and that passion is reflected every matchday. With towering stands and an incredible home support, St James’ Park remains one of Britain’s great football venues. 6. Stadium of Light – Sunderland Sunderland supporters have rediscovered their voice in recent seasons, turning the Stadium of Light into one of the loudest grounds in England. On its day, the atmosphere rivals almost anywhere in the country. 5. Villa Park – Aston Villa European nights have taken Villa Park’s atmosphere to another level. Aston Villa supporters have always been among England’s most passionate, creating an intimidating environment for visiting teams. 4. Elland Road – Leeds United Elland Road has built its reputation over decades as one of football’s most hostile away grounds. Leeds supporters create relentless noise from first whistle to last, especially during the biggest matches. 3. Ibrox – Rangers Few stadiums can match Ibrox on a European night. Rangers supporters never stop backing their side, producing an atmosphere that has become famous throughout world football. 2. Anfield – Liverpool The famous Kop remains one of football’s most iconic stands. Whether it’s “You’ll Never Walk Alone” before kick-off or the intensity of a Champions League night, Anfield consistently delivers unforgettable atmospheres. 1. Celtic Park – Celtic For SNN Sports, no stadium in Britain tops Celtic Park. From Old Firm clashes to memorable European evenings, the noise inside Parkhead is relentless. The combination of over 60,000 passionate supporters, iconic traditions and an electric atmosphere makes it Britain’s loudest football stadium. Do You Agree? Every football supporter will have their own opinion on this ranking, and that’s what makes these debates so enjoyable. Did your club make the list? Should Tynecastle, Fratton Park or The Den be higher? Is there another stadium we’ve overlooked? Let us know your top five in the comments and across SNN Sports’ social media channels.
My World Cup Team Of The Tournament
With the World Cup now complete, here are the 11 players that have earned a place in my Team of the Tournament. GK – Vozinha The Veteran goalkeeper announced himself in this year’s World Cup after a series of outstanding performances. Most notably against eventual winner’s Spain, where he kept a clean sheet to earn a vital point against a truly phenomenal side. Against all odds, Cape Verde progressed to the Round of 32, where they pushed eventual runners-up Argentina to extra-time. Despite losing 3-2, Vozinha and Cape Verde made a statement in their performances across the campaign. RB – Pedro Porro Six appearances, two goals, five clean-sheets, Pedro Porro was fantastic in Spain’s indestructible defence. After a poor season with Spurs, the Spanish full-back has showed his real quality in this year’s World Cup, resulting in going back home with the trophy. CB – Pau Cubarsi The Young Player of the Tournament award was well deserved for the Spanish youngster. After eight appearances, Cubarsi and Spain accumulated seven clean sheets across the tournament, as well as only conceding one goal throughout their successful campaign. CB – Aymeric Laporte Alongside Cubarsi, Laporte was superb throughout the tournament. His experience and composure helped organise Spain during the biggest moments of the tournament, which led to their success in the final. LB – Marc Cucurella An all-Spanish defence highlights how outstanding Spain were in defence and throughout the whole tournament. Cucurella wasn’t just reliable at the back but also was a huge presence in attack. The newly signed Real Madrid player scored three goals during his campaign and gave Spain great attacking outlets from the left hand-side of the pitch. CDM – Rodri Rodri, the heartbeat of Spain’s midfield. With a World Cup, Euros, Champions League and Ballon d’Or to his name, Rodri has truly completed football. His ability to control the game and pick-out passes which are simply majestic to the eye, shows why he is the official Player of the Tournament. CM – Jude Bellingham Bellingham was England’s driving force throughout the tournament. Seven goals and one assist in eight games, alongside his ability to show up in the big moments, shows how vital he is to England. CM – Michael Olise Olise broke the assist record with an outstanding eight assists throughout his campaign. The previous record was set by the great Pele in the 1970 World Cup, with six assists. It wasn’t just the assists that made Olise shine, his quality on the ball was world-class throughout the tournament. LW – Kylian Mbappe The tournaments top goal-scorer. Mbappe’s 22 goals in 22 World Cup appearances saw the French superstar become the all-time leading goal-scorer after his brace against England. A fantastic tournament from the French captain, who once again showcased his world-class ability on the biggest stage. RW – Lionel Messi At 39-years-old, it may well be the last dance at a World Cup for Messi. However, if it is to be, he will go out with a World Cup trophy and 21 goals to his name across his career in the competition. Despite the heartbreak in the final, the Argentinian magician demonstrated his quality once again with 12 goal contributions and moments of brilliance that seemed impossible. ST – Erling Haaland Haaland made a statement at his first World Cup. It was Norway’s first appearance at the tournament since 1998, and they made it one to remember. From the row celebrations to knocking out five-time winner’s Brazil, Haaland was the main man throughout it all. Seven goals in five games for Haaland highlighted why he is regarded as one of the best strikers in world football.