With the new football season just around the corner, it’s that time again when fans, pundits, and analysts alike turn their attention to the Premier League.
The 2023/24 campaign is going to be a fascinating blend of renewed rivalries, fresh faces, and familiar power struggles. Last year delivered its share of memorable moments and unexpected narratives. This year, we predict more of the unexpected, sprinkled with the dependable brilliance we’ve come to associate with England’s top-flight league.
So, boot up and come along as we preview what the new season holds in store.
365Scores’ Predictions:
Champions: Arsenal
Arsenal last season were a revelation. After six seasons out of the Top Four, Mikel Arteta’s exciting Gunners finished a narrow second to Manchester City. Over the summer, they have massively upgraded their squad, signing goalkeeper David Raya from Brentford, Jurrien Timber from Ajax, Kai Havertz from Chelsea, and of course, Declan Rice from West Ham. Their team looks fully equipped to effectively challenge for the title, and they have just proved that they can go toe-to-toe with Manchester City having beaten them in the Community Shield. Whilst City are undoubtedly still quality, and have the know-how and experience to win titles, I still think Arsenal have strengthened their squad enough to swoop in for the title .
Top Four: Manchester City, Manchester United, Chelsea
I am backing another Arsenal vs. Manchester City title race, so whichever team just falls short of the title will occupy second place.
Manchester United have been active in the transfer window, signing Andre Onana, Mason Mount and Rasmus Hojlund which addresses key issues in the side. As a direct, attacking side, they have shown glimpses of their potential in pre-season and a strong campaign is to be expected from them in Erik ten Hag’s second season.
With regards to Chelsea, I recognise what you may be thinking; Chelsea finished 12th last season, how on earth will they jump eight places and finish in the Champions League spots? Well, Chelsea have brought in Mauricio Pochettino, a truly fantastic manager, to revolutionise their misfortunes. They have entirely streamlined their squad, selling around 15 senior squad members whilst bringing in talented, young players such as Nicolas Jackson, Kendry Paez and Axel Disasi. Expect them to play an attractive brand of football.
Relegated: Luton Town, Everton, Sheffield United
Luton Town have made it to the Premier League for the first time in their history, but I can’t see them surviving to see a second season in the top flight. They are yet to sign effective reinforcements that could keep them afloat for another year.
It’s looking perilous for Sheffield United. Star player Iliman Ndiaye has left for Marseille and, like Luton, they are yet to sign any players that will transform their side towards Premier League standards.
As for Everton, they survived last year by the skin of their teeth, but have done nothing to improve their team bar signing Ashley Young on a free transfer. Although they’ve played Premier League football every single season since its formation, if Everton don’t sign any players, this could be their last season in the top flight for a while.
Player of the Season: William Saliba
William Saliba’s potential influence cannot be understated. His development suggests he could be pivotal for Arsenal’s title ambitions. His presence at the back offers Arsenal defensive stability, combining his knack for reading the game with notable physical prowess. While still young, Saliba’s emerging leadership qualities could see him anchor and rally the Gunners through challenging fixtures.
An expected aerial dominance in both defensive and offensive set-pieces, coupled with his evolving ball-distribution skills, means Arsenal has a centre-back adept at both thwarting attacks and initiating them. If Arsenal is to clinch the title this season, consistent performances from key figures like Saliba will be crucial. Given his trajectory, he’s not just poised to be Arsenal’s linchpin but also a strong contender for Player of the Season.
Players to Watch:
1. Alejandro Garnacho (winger) – Manchester United
Alejandro Garnacho is only 19 but he is an electrifying talent. After showing amazing glimpses of his potential last season, Garnacho is tipped to play a greater role in the side this campaign. Think Cristiano Ronaldo 2006/07 vibes. Especially with new summer signing Rasmus Hojlund sidelined for the first few games due to a back injury, Garnacho will inevitably have a chance to demonstrate his exceptional capabilities.
2. Lewis Hall (winger/full-back) – Crystal Palace (on loan from Chelsea)
Lewis Hall (Crystal Palace): Player to Watch
Crystal Palace’s loan acquisition of Lewis Hall from Chelsea is a shrewd move. Versatile enough to command both the winger and full-back positions, Hall’s dynamism and agility make him a dual threat on the pitch. In the attacking third, his pinpoint crosses and flair for taking on defenders have already turned heads. Defensively, his robust challenges and ability to track back swiftly underline his comprehensive understanding of the game. His loan to Palace offers the perfect platform to showcase his talent and gain invaluable Premier League experience.
3. Evan Ferguson (striker) – Brighton
Ferguson, even at his tender age, has demonstrated attributes that make seasoned football observers sit up and take notice. His natural goal-scoring instincts, paired with his ability to position himself expertly in the box, make him a nightmare for opposing defenders. Only 18, he has already scored six Premier League goals and two on the international stage.
4. Bart Verbruggen (goalkeeper) – Brighton
Brighton’s acquisition of Bart Verbruggen from Anderlecht signals a strategic move to bolster their last line of defence following their sale of Robert Sanchez to Chelsea. The young Belgian goalkeeper, despite his age, already boasts an impressive record, demonstrating reflexes, composure, and shot-stopping abilities that rival seasoned veterans.
5. Anel Ahmedhodzic (centre-back) – Sheffield United
The Bosnian centre-back is known for his towering presence and impeccable aerial duels. He was their fourth top scorer last year, with seven goals. His comfort with the ball at his feet also means that Sheffield can transition from defence to attack with fluidity. He’s one to watch.
Dark Horse: Aston Villa
Aston Villa, once a staple of the Premier League’s upper echelons, have been steadily rebuilding since Unai Emery’s arrival last November and come into the 2023/24 season with an air of renewed optimism. Their shrewd transfer activities signal an intent to challenge the status quo. Pau Torres is a left-footed centre-back with international and Champions League pedigree. Youri Tielemans is a Premier League-established, technically gifted centre-midfielder. They have also signed the highly-rated winger Moussa Diaby for €50m from Bayer Leverkusen.
With a balanced squad that boasts both attacking flair and defensive solidity, coupled with their passionate home crowd at Villa Park, they’re primed to upset some of the more established giants. While they may not start as Top Four favourites, underestimate Villa at your peril.
Best Summer Signings:
1. Andre Onana (goalkeeper) – Inter Milan to Manchester United (€50m)
His performance in the Champions League Final was the cherry on top of the cake, United had to make a move. David de Gea had been an effective servant to United since 2011, but questions continued to arise regarding his distribution and shot prevention. Luckily, these are two areas in which Onana thrives. With a new-look backline, United will be reformed for the better.
2. Pau Torres (centre-back) – Vilarreal to Aston Villa (€35m)
This is a huge coup by Aston Villa. Pau Torres is up there with the world’s best left-footed centre-backs, and he has reunited with ex-boss Unai Emery to ply his trade in the Premier League. Aston Villa are looking dangerous this season.
3. Justin Kluivert (striker) – Roma to Bournemouth (€11m)
This is an effective coup for Bournemouth. They have brought real European experience to their side and his goalscoring prowess could be the difference between survival and relegation for The Cherries.
4. Manor Solomon (winger) – Shakhtar Donetsk to Tottenham (free)
The tricky Israeli winger has signed for Tottenham on a free. He played for Fulham on loan last season, proving his effectiveness with a series of bright appearances and crucial goals. Tottenham may still have to pay Shakhtar something in the region of €6m, as they feel that Solomon was unfairly prized away from them following the start of the Ukraine-Russia conflict.
5. Declan Rice (centre-midfield) – West Ham to Arsenal (€110m)
The most expensive Premier League signing of the summer, Declan Rice is the man that Arsenal hope will carry them to the Premier League title. He has already shown his class for West Ham and now for Arsenal in the Community Shield. He is a supremely talented player and expect him to be indispensable for The Gunners this season.
365Scores will be here for all the twists and turns of the upcoming campaign, so make sure you stay tuned in, and here’s to a season of unforgettable moments!
By Nicky Helfgott / @NickyH3lfgott on X (Twitter)
