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Who has the deepest squad in the Premier League?

In a Premier League season increasingly shaped by injuries, rotation and congested schedules, what happens when the first choices are unavailable can be incredibly important.

Published: Tuesday, 6 October 2026 at 7:00 AM
Who has the deepest squad in the Premier League?
Key Things to Know
  • Arsenal ranked first overall across the Premier League in Sky Sports' squad depth and competitive depth indexes.
  • Arsenal's named substitutes have averaged a league-high £367 million in market value during Premier League matches this season.
  • Manchester United under Michael Carrick have relied heavily on starters, with their core XI playing over 88 percent of league minutes.
The Story in 60 Seconds

A Sky Sports analysis comparing squad depth across all 20 Premier League clubs ranked Arsenal first overall in both the Squad Depth Index and the Competitive Depth Index. The study evaluated Opta match data, player market values, positional cover, fixture demands, and substitute impact. Mikel Arteta's squad features an average substitute bench value of £367 million and retains roughly 92 percent of its estimated first-team value when using an entirely alternate second lineup.

The analysis also highlighted positional disparities and rotation trends throughout the division. While Tottenham and Arsenal have rotated heavily, Manchester United under Michael Carrick have given over 88 percent of their minutes to core starters. Specific squad weaknesses were identified across the league, including Arsenal at left-wing and Liverpool on the right flank, while Everton ranked lowest for centre-forward depth behind starter Thierno Barry.

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