The Misli Premier League for the 2026/27 season is set to begin. There is no doubt that this season will be even more interesting than the previous ones.

Offsideplus.az presents an overview of the teams and the positions they will be fighting for in the tournament table.

In the title race

Sabah's main goal will once again be to win the championship. In fact, such an ambition was not present at the start of last season, but this objective developed later on. However, the target for the team that was crowned champion last season will undoubtedly remain unchanged.

Qarabag has long been dominant in the league. Of course, their aim is also to secure the championship. Nine players have left the squad, while eight new players have been brought in. The squad has almost been completely renewed. The goal set by a club like Qarabag is well known to everyone.

Neftchi, celebrating its 90th anniversary, is also in contention for the title. The management has already made this clear. Although the pre-season and European competition matches did not inspire much hope, the fact remains: the target is the summit.

Turan Tovuz's goal last season was also to win the championship, and this time it will be the same. The team's budget has increased as well. The president of the western representative, Ehtiram Guliyev, does not hide his ambitions.

As challenging as it may be, Zirə's time for a championship has come. There are very few teams that can perform consistently at this level. This collective could also lift the championship trophy, having reached the finals three times in the last five cup competitions. The only issue is their financial situation compared to the other four clubs. However, Rashad Sadygov has matured as a head coach and is capable of bringing the joy of championship success.

In the mid-table battle

If Sumqayıt had a slightly larger budget, their ambitions might also be for the championship. Although they hit a rough patch last season, they managed to recover later on. The club's main goal is to secure a mid-table position. With so many teams vying for the title, the European competition zone seems a bit distant. However, if Sumqayıt manages to break into that zone, it would not be surprising.

While some believe Araz-Nakhchivan will leave the elite, the current squad and budget suggest they should establish themselves as a mid-table team. Therefore, it can be anticipated that the Nakhchivan representative will at least secure a place in the top eight.

Qəbələ surprised everyone negatively last season. However, this is a club that no one wants to believe is only aiming to stay in the elite. The budget has been increased, and new transfers have been made. They will be fighting for the highest positions possible.

In the battle to stay in the elite

Kəpəz, with its name and Ganja's football tradition, naturally aspires for the championship. However, one cannot stray too far from reality. The team's head coach and captain have clarified their main objective: "To secure our place in the elite and progress as much as possible." This is completely understandable, given the club's limited budget. However, Kəpəz fans need not be disappointed—this squad will also show resilience in the fight for higher positions.

There is not much to say about Shamakhi and Shefa; everything is evident. The factor of Azer Bagirov makes the "lions" appear more fortunate. If Shefa does not find an urgent way out, the situation will not be at all encouraging.