This could be the most exciting Premier League season of all time. At least five clubs (the Manchester clubs, Chelsea, Arsenal, Liverpool) seem to have some shot at the title and two more (Everton, Spurs) have a real chance to make Top 4 if everything breaks right for them. Further, you can make an argument that each of those teams - admittedly, you have to be pretty optimistic to include Liverpool in that category - has gotten better since last year. I think we're going to have a tremendously exciting season and that this year could also mark the beginning of a resurgence in the fortunes of English clubs in European play.
Obviously, there is still transfer business to be concluded. But the start of the year is upon us next weekend so lets see everybody's predictions regarding the top of the table, the relegation battle and the top players.
Top of the Table
1. Chelsea - The most complete team led by the manager with the best track record of getting league results.
2. City - A deep, talented squad that addressed its biggest weakness. Need Yaya and Aguero healthy and in form to challenge for the title.
3. Arsenal - If they buy a CDM and get some injury luck, could challenge for the title. But this team is probably a year away.
4. United - LVG will get results and not playing Europe will be a very big advantage, especially down the stretch. But to challenge they probably need two more big signings.
5. Liverpool - Could challenge if everything goes right but I'm betting it won't. Tons of new players, no Suarez, and Europe = Transitional year. Top 4 is very achievable though.
6. Everton - I think their first XI can play with anybody but I wonder about their depth, especially playing in Europe now.
7. Spurs - Need the big buys from last summer to actually deliver. Crazier things have happened.
Relegation
Burnley
West Brom
Leicester
Golden Boot
Sergio Aguero
Young Player of the Year
Aaron Ramsey
Obviously, there is still transfer business to be concluded. But the start of the year is upon us next weekend so lets see everybody's predictions regarding the top of the table, the relegation battle and the top players.
Top of the Table
1. Chelsea - The most complete team led by the manager with the best track record of getting league results.
2. City - A deep, talented squad that addressed its biggest weakness. Need Yaya and Aguero healthy and in form to challenge for the title.
3. Arsenal - If they buy a CDM and get some injury luck, could challenge for the title. But this team is probably a year away.
4. United - LVG will get results and not playing Europe will be a very big advantage, especially down the stretch. But to challenge they probably need two more big signings.
5. Liverpool - Could challenge if everything goes right but I'm betting it won't. Tons of new players, no Suarez, and Europe = Transitional year. Top 4 is very achievable though.
6. Everton - I think their first XI can play with anybody but I wonder about their depth, especially playing in Europe now.
7. Spurs - Need the big buys from last summer to actually deliver. Crazier things have happened.
Relegation
Burnley
West Brom
Leicester
Golden Boot
Sergio Aguero
Young Player of the Year
Aaron Ramsey