It’s an exciting time for all football fans out there: the best league in the world is back! The Premier League is kicking off on Friday August 11th with newly promoted Burnley facing off with reigning champs Manchester City. But who will take home the crown this season? Who will make Top 4? Who can surprise us? Let’s find out our predictions on the 2023/24 Premier League campaign.
Champions
Although the battle for Premier League champion was an intensely hard-fought one – many would say somewhat surprisingly – between Arsenal and Manchester City last season, we cannot bet against last year’s treble winners: City are heavily favored once again by all major sports pages to win their 6th title in the last seven seasons. Even though City have lost arguably one of their top three performers from last season in Ilkay Gundogan, as well as Riyad Mahrez, the addition of Kovacic will suit Guardiola’s playing style well, and they have added depth to an already amazing backline with the signing of Josko Gvardiol.
Manchester City to Finish in 1st Place – 1.72
Top 4
This is where the situation gets a bit complicated. There are arguably one side who is almost certain of finishing in the Top 4 this season if their form from last season resumes: Arsenal. The Gunners have strengthened their squad by adding the likes of Havertz, Timber and Rice, but will also have to contend against big names in the Champions League this season. Young stars like Martinelli and Saka will only get better as time goes by, and will be a real thorn in the side of every team the Gunners come up against. They are our favorites to finish second – alongside Liverpool FC.
Arsenal to finish Top 4 – 1.39
Liverpool had a disappointing season last year, missing out on Top 4 by a few points. However, the season before they were just a few games away from winning an unprecedented quadruple, and most of that team’s core is still intact with the likes of Allisson, Van Dijk, Alexander Arnold and Salah still performing at the club. Their summer departures – most of all Fabinho and Henderson, who both joined Saudi sides – have been filled by exciting players like World Cup winner Alexis MacAllister and one of Europe’s most exciting young attacking midfielders in Dominik Szoboszlai – Moises Caicedo looks like he could now also join for a record Premier League fee! If Jurgen Klopp finds a way to balance his midfield, keep his frontline healthy (Lius Diaz was out for months at a time last season) and regain the defensive solidity that characterized his sides in previous years, Liverpool could likely be the top candidate to challenge City to the title.
Liverpool to finish Top 4 – 1.52
Following Arsenal and Liverpool, it is a real scramble for the remaining spot in the Top 4. Manchester United remain one of the preferred candidates, although their transfers have not been as significant as the above-mentioned sides. Onana is an upgrade on last season’s version of David de Gea, but Mount is arriving after an off-season with Chelsea and a big price tag, while Danish striker Hojlund is a massive gamble, but one that may pay off in the long run. The lack of a proven goal scorer in the striker position may come back to haunt them at the end of the season, unless Rashford can repeat last year’s feat. Ten Hag has revamped the playing style at United, but the quality of the other sides in the league may complicate United’s plans this season, although they are our final pick to make Top 4.
Chelsea are a massive question mark after last season’s incredibly disappointing campaign. The Blues have gone through a big overhaul this summer, with the likes of Pulisic, Aubameyang, Mount, Azpilicueta and many more leaving the club. They have signed quality players, but Nkunku’s (as well as Fofana’s) serious knee injury puts the start of their season – at least – in jeopardy. Jackson is a good signing but may need time to adapt to the Premier League. And, among all the clubs mentioned so far, they are the only one that is starting this campaign with a new manager. There are too many question marks still surrounding the West Londoners, which is why we are predicting them to finish outside the Top 4, but still in with a decent chance.
Manchester United to finish Top 4 – 1.70
Chelsea to finish Top 4 – 2.42
Surprise Performers
Don’t sleep on Aston Villa this season! The Lions have arguably had the best transfer window in the league, bringing in three proven European players. Youri Tielemans on a free is a steal, while Pau Torres is a solid defender that has won a Europa League title and reached the Champions League semis with Villarreal over the last couple seasons. Diaby meanwhile had 23 goal contributions at Leverkusen last season and will be a massive upgrade for Villa’s frontline. Combine these transfers with their great form in the latter half of last season under Unai Emery and Aston Villa may well be this season’s surprise package – maybe even challenge for Top 4 if they get it right.
Aston Villa to finish Top 4 – 8.00
