In August, the Premier League will return for another fascinating instalment.
Man City return once again as the football betting sites heavy favourites. In the 2022/23 campaign, the Citizens notched a third consecutive Premier League title. The Manchester club then went on to win a historic treble as they also lifted the FA Cup and the Champions League.
Can anyone step up to crumble Pep Guardiola’s reign over the Premier League? Arsenal were the standout competitors last season, but eventually fell short in second. Man United were back in the top four, but inevitably drifted too far behind to mount a serious title push.
Liverpool, Chelsea, and new Champions League entrants Newcastle will also fancy their chances in 2023/24 and the sides could form a surprising challenge. Meanwhile, the likes of Aston Villa and Brighton will want to recreate their overachieving campaigns of 2022/23.
Undoubtedly, several clubs have made some key signings and added new coaching staff in a bid to challenge this season.
Title Race
City are the team to beat yet again in the Premier League. After last season’s success, few changes are expected at the Etihad. The club lost captain Ilkay Gundogan to Barcelona, which could be a loss in the dressing room. But City have enough depth to challenge again this season.
Arsenal’s late capitulation last season means Mikel Arteta has jumped into the transfer market early this summer. Kai Havertz has joined the club to provide more firepower, while the Gunners are close to signing West Ham starlet Declan Rice, which would be a big statement. With the core form last season, Arsenal will be desperate to go one step further in 2022/23.
Man United also had a solid end to 2022/23 after some troubled beginnings under Erik Ten Hag. The Red Devils found their feet eventually in the Premier League and finished strongly with a comfortable top-four finish. Already, United have signed Mason Mount to add more quality to their midfield and a few more quality signings could give the Manchester club enough class to push for the title.
In addition, Newcastle’s core squad showed consistency and ability last season under Eddie Howe. With a deep transfer budget, the Magpies can bring in top-level players to add to a strong first team. As a result, they could be the dark horses for the title this season.
Elsewhere, Liverpool and Chelsea may not have enough to keep chase in 2022/23. Liverpool have released some experienced players in James Milner and Roberton Firmino and a period of change is afoot. Similarly, Chelsea’s massive squad overhaul and learning curve under Mauricio Pochettino might leave them too short this season.
European Chase
Brighton and Aston Villa’s excellent achievements of securing Europa League and Conference League football showcased their ability last season. In Roberto De Zerbi (Brighton) and Unai Emery (Aston Villa), these sides have two of the most talented coaches in the Premier League and another strong upcoming campaign is likely.
But, the likes of Brentford and Fulham were around the European places for plenty of last season and these two sides will want to improve further in 2023/24. Moreover, Tottenham will be desperate to turn around their disappointing campaign last season. But keeping hold of Harry Kane and the board backing new boss Ange Postecoglou will be essential.
Relegation Battle
Promoted Burnley took the Championship by storm last season under an inspired Vincent Kompany. A much-changed Clarets squad were dominant in the second tier and are likely to be competitive in the Premier League.
However, Sheffield United and Luton have made few signings so far and may have to rely on shrewd signings and tight-knit squads to keep in the divisions this season.
Moreover, Everton will need more consistency under Sean Dyche to move away from relegation troubles. AFC Bournemouth could also be thrust into the relegation battle after the shock decision to sack Gary O’Neil during the summer after he kept the club in the division.
