Azerbaijan Premier League 2025-26 Season Preview
The upcoming Azerbaijan Premier League season is shaping up to be one of the most thrilling in recent memory. A surge of ambitious signings, managerial shake-ups, and reinvigorated clubs has injected fresh energy into the competition.
With a captivating mix of experienced veterans and emerging local stars, the 2025/26 campaign promises drama, unpredictability, and edge-of-the-seat encounters from kickoff to the final whistle.
Qarabağ: Prediction: 1st
Last season’s position: 1st
The only thing appearing to stand in Gurban Gurbanov’s way is himself and his own squad. Four straight Premier League titles raise obvious questions about the Horsemen’s motivation heading into the season.
Still, they remain among the favourites to challenge for the title, thanks to the playmaking brilliance of Kady Borges and Leandro Andrade, as well as the arrival of dynamic Moroccan defender Samy Mmaee, who is expected to slot straight into the starting XI.
Qarabağ faces pressure to strengthen its striker line, with growing doubts among supporters over Musa Gurbanli and Nariman Akhundzade’s inconsistent form. The duo’s instability upfront raises concerns about the team’s attacking reliability moving forward.
Araz Nakhchivan: Prediction: 2nd
Last season’s position: 3rd
Elmar Bakhshiyev has worked wonders with Araz, turning them into one of the league’s most tactically disciplined sides. This summer’s transfer activity has further bolstered their ranks, positioning them as a genuine threat to Qarabağ’s domestic dominance.
The additions of experienced former Qarabağ midfielder Patrick Andrade, and Apollon Limassol’s Charles Boli add quality and depth that could cause serious problems for their rivals.
Sabah: Prediction: 3rd
Last season’s position: 5th
Following Vasili Berezutski’s exit, Sabah has hit the reset button with the arrival of Valdas Dambrauskas, sparking fresh hopes that the Owls will rediscover their attacking flair.
The potent strike partnership of Pavol Šafranko, Joy-Lance Mickels, and Jesse Sekidika promises to keep defenders on their toes throughout the season. Still, defensive frailties remain a concern if Sabah are to mount a genuine challenge for silverware.
Neftçi. Prediction: 4th
Last season’s position: 6th
Last season, Neftçi struggled and became the subject of ridicule until Samir Abbasov took charge, steering the team away from relegation and securing a solid mid-table finish. However, if the Oilers stumble at the start of this season, fans won’t hesitate to demand a change in management.
All eyes will be on club legend Emin Mahmudov as he looks to recover from a disappointing campaign, alongside AEK Larnaca winger Imad Faraj, who has quickly become a fan favourite thanks to his impressive performances.
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Zira. Prediction: 5th
Last season’s position: 2nd
Fans are hopeful Zira can replicate last year’s solid performance, with new signing Brahim Konaté from Shamakhi already impressing during pre-season.
Under the guidance of Rashad Sadygov, who has successfully attracted promising young talent, the club is focusing on building a strong team for the future.
However, the departure of maverick winger Salifou Soumah is set to create a major void in the squad, stripping the team of not only his clinical finishing but also the unpredictability that so often kept opposition defences on edge in the final third.
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Turan Tovuz. Prediction: 6th
Last season’s position: 4th
Will it work, or will it fail? Turan has long carried the promise of challenging for a top-three finish but has more often fallen short. Last season’s fourth-place finish did little to silence doubts over Kurban Berdyev’s job security — but this year could be his final chance to prove the critics wrong.
Rather than opting for a full overhaul, Turan has concentrated on addressing key weaknesses. Still, limited bench depth remains a concern that could see them drop valuable points once again.
Keep a close watch on former Deportivo La Coruña striker Roberto Olabe — arriving eager to revive his career and make an impact in the Premier League.
Gabala: Prediction: 7th
Last season’s position: N/A (Promoted)
The sudden closure of Gabala Academy came as a shock to many, given its reputation for producing top young talent. The club’s board defended the decision, citing cost-saving measures and a desire to focus resources on strengthening the main squad.
Despite the challenges, supporters place their faith in Kakhaber Tskhadadze. A respected figure in Azerbaijani football, Tskhadadze led Inter Baku (now Shamakhi) to a Premier League title and successfully steered Gabala through promotion from League I. He remains confident the team will compete fiercely this season, striving for the highest possible finish and ready to challenge every rival.
Shamakhi: Prediction: 8th
Last season’s position: 7th
Shamakhi head into the new season determined to steer clear of the relegation battle that has haunted them in the past. However, the club’s financial situation remains fragile, adding a significant challenge to their ambitions. While European qualification remains out of reach, the squad boasts promising talents like right winger Karim Rossi, signed from Swiss side Schaffhausen.
Manager Aykhan Abbasov, recently appointed Azerbaijan’s U-21 coach, plans to use Shamakhi as a development hub for young players, turning the club into a feeder team to bolster the national squad’s future.
Sumgayit: Prediction: 9th
Last season’s position: 8th
With little clarity on Saša Ilić’s tactical vision, fans remain sceptical about Sumgayit’s prospects this season.
The club’s restrained activity in the transfer market has only fuelled concerns. Minimal reinforcements, particularly in crucial areas, leave serious doubts over whether Sumgayit have the squad depth and quality to compete consistently in a demanding Premier League campaign.
Kapaz: Prediction: 10th
Last season’s position: 9th
Kapaz is engulfed in a whirlwind of uncertainty following a recent overhaul in the club’s ownership and management. The new leadership arrived with promises of a much-needed financial injection, but progress has been frustratingly slow both on and off the pitch. The Ganja-based side now face what looks set to be another gruelling fight to avoid relegation from the Azerbaijan Premier League.
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With finances still stretched and minimal activity during the summer transfer window, supporters remain unconvinced that Kapaz has the resources or squad depth to escape a difficult season.
Karvan: Prediction: 11th
Last season’s position: N/A (Promoted)
Karvan’s president, Shahmar Valiyev, has set ambitious targets for the upcoming season, including a push for a top-five finish. In parallel, plans are underway to renovate the club’s 6,000-seat stadium.
However, the decision to install an artificial pitch rather than natural grass has raised significant concern among supporters. Critics argue that the move prioritizes convenience and cost over player welfare and the integrity of the game, calling into question the club’s long-term vision and commitment to quality.
To reinforce their challenge this season, the club has signed seasoned midfielder Araz Abdullayev, whose experience and composure in midfield will be crucial. Meanwhile, winger Kyle Spence adds pace and creativity, offering a vital attacking outlet in tight matches.
Imishli: Prediction: 12th
Last season’s position: N/A (Promoted)
Imishli have accomplished a rare feat, securing promotion from League I straight to the Azerbaijan Premier League. But as newcomers to the top flight, they face an uphill battle to avoid an immediate return to the lower tier, with many experts predicting a short stay.
Adding to the challenge is the recent appointment of Jorge Casquilha as manager. Despite his experience, scepticism lingers among fans who question whether Portuguese manager has the pedigree and tactical nous to steer Imishli through the rigours of Premier League football.
By: Fuad Alakbarov / @DrAlakbarov
Featured Image: @Juanffrann / Aziz Karimov – Stringer