The Pundits’ Predictions

Jamie Carragher

As a seasoned football enthusiast and former professional player myself, I must admit that the excitement for the new season is palpable. The anticipation of seeing teams take to the pitch after a long hiatus is always exhilarating!

Sky Sports Football Analyst

The Pundits’ Predictions

Can anyone stop Manchester City doing it again?

The only team that could stop Manchester City this season is Arsenal.

Who will finish in the European spots?

Manchester City, Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester United, Tottenham and Aston Villa.

How do you see the newly-promoted teams doing?

Compared to the previous season, things are significantly improved, which isn’t overly challenging to acknowledge. Personally, I’ve long held the view that the Premier League last year included three Championship teams, while the Championship itself had three Premier League teams. Ipswich has emerged as a pleasant surprise and appears similar to the team we saw last season – a squad that hasn’t competed at this level for some time. Southampton and Leicester City are teams aiming to make a strong impression in the Premier League this year. Ipswich will be ecstatic if they can merely steer clear of relegation.

Is there a team you think may surprise people?

Despite a challenging pre-season performance, Everton may surprise everyone and secure a place in the upper half of the table this season. There was quite a bit of pessimism surrounding them last term. They’ve let go of some players, but retaining Jarrad Branthwaite could help them perform well.

Are there any early signings who stand out?

Looking forward to observing how Amadou Onana performs at Aston Villa. While his time at Everton didn’t fully convince me, his play for Belgium left an impression. He possesses an impressive physique and is joining a strong team. It will be intriguing to see if he thrives with a more favorable squad and different football approach.

Pat Nevin

Radio 5 Live commentator

Who do you see being in the hunt for the title?

As a football enthusiast, I’m convinced we’re in for another intense competition between Manchester City and Arsenal. Last season, the gap between them was significantly narrowed due to the presence of Erling Haaland in City’s lineup. Recognizing that Arsenal could greatly benefit from a prolific striker, it’s clear they need someone who can consistently find the back of the net. Nevertheless, I firmly believe that this upcoming season will be an epic showdown, a battle that will captivate fans and test the mettle of both teams.

Who else will push for Champions League qualification?

1. New Liverpool manager Arne Slot faces a challenging debut season; I’m doubtful he’ll have the resources to outpace Manchester City and Arsenal. Ange Postecoglou did commendably at Tottenham last year, but it wasn’t his team. This season, he gets an opportunity to shape things differently. As for Manchester United, I believe Erik ten Hag must achieve success from the get-go; if not, the new proprietors might show less patience. Lastly, this should be the campaign where Chelsea reclaim a spot in the top four. After spending a billion, finishing tenth just won’t do.

Who do you see struggling?

Having been through my fair share of ups and downs in the world of football, I can confidently say that I believe the newly promoted teams will face a significant challenge ahead. Their journey to the top division was hard-earned, but maintaining their place among the elite will require immense effort and resilience. As for Brentford, with my memory still fresh from their tumble last season, I’d advise them to tread carefully. They should learn from their past mistakes and focus on solidifying their position in the league.

Who’s your pick for golden boot?

It’s generally agreed that Erling Haaland is the top striker, given his current team’s excellence, he’s unquestionably a standout player.

Sam Matterface

Talksport Chief football commentator

Are you excited about the return of the Premier League?

Indeed, it’s widely recognized as the most competitive league globally. Personally, I believe this year will bring a thrilling title challenge.

And who will win the title?

Manchester City usually begins matches with heightened expectations due to their top-tier coaching, stellar team, and abundant resources. However, Manchester United, Arsenal, and Tottenham Hotspur are equally formidable competitors who won’t let City dominate without a fight.

Which teams do you think will be pushing for the European places?

Additionally to the teams I’ve previously mentioned, we have Liverpool, Newcastle United, and Aston Villa. Newcastle has faced some limitations when it comes to investing due to Financial Fair Play regulations, but Aston Villa presents an exciting young squad. Among their players, Ollie Watkins stands out the most. His goal in a Euros semi-final is a testament to his ability to shine on the grandest stages.

Who do you see being involved in a relegation dog fight?

As a die-hard film buff translating sports talk, I’d say: Beyond the limelight of the top contenders like Leicester City, Ipswich Town, and Southampton, I’m worried Brentford might face some challenges this season. With their star player Ivan Toney likely to depart and his replacement, Igor Thiago, out until at least Christmas, it seems a tough road ahead for them. Nottingham Forest might share similar struggles.

Who will win the golden boot?

It’s easy to say Erling Haaland at Manchester City, but for me that’s a bit of a cop-out, so I will also mention Rasmus Hojlund for Manchester United.

If you could change one rule, what would it be?

Returning to the rule where teams can make just three substitutions instead of five might be a better approach. Having more substitutions per team interferes with the game’s flow and is often used to prolong the match. This tactic seems unfair to fans who have spent significant amounts of money to watch an entire 90-minute football game.

Des Lynam

Former Match of the Day host

Can anyone stop Man City winning the title again?

It seems uncertain that they’re unbeatable, but they’re certainly the team to watch out for. It’s intriguing to anticipate how Liverpool will perform under Arne Slot.

Who do you think will finish in the Champions League spots?

I have a strong sense that Manchester United could make a comeback this year, but aside from them, I believe the competition will primarily involve the same group of teams. I’m keeping my fingers crossed that my team, Brighton, might even attempt to compete for the title in the future.

How do you see the promoted teams doing?

I’ve a feeling Leicester will do OK, but it will be a battle for the other two.

Who are you backing to be the player or the year?

It’ll be intriguing to watch how Phil Foden performs for Manchester City, given that he was the top player in the league last season. However, he didn’t shine much during the Euros, it seems. So, there might be a point to prove for him this time around.

And how about the winner of the golden boot?

I’m going to play it safe and say Erling Haaland again.

Chris Iwelumo

Talksport and Sky Sports commentator

How excited are you about the start of the new season?

At the end of a season, you’re initially excited for some downtime. However, after about a week, I start eagerly marking the days until the match schedules are announced!

Who will win the title?

I think it’s going to be another two-horse race between Arsenal and Manchester City.

And how about the Champions League spots?

1. Arne Slot faces a transition phase at Liverpool as he introduces his strategies, and I find some resemblance between him and Jürgen Klopp; I believe they’ll thrive. Manchester United has made shrewd signings and brought Ruud van Nistelrooy back as coach, which I think is an excellent decision. Spurs are likely to be in the mix as well. Aston Villa aims for a European spot, but I wonder if they can keep up in various aspects of competition.

Who are you tipping for the golden boot?

You can’t look beyond Haaland.

2024-08-14 20:04

Jamie Carragher

Pat Nevin

Sam Matterface

Des Lynam

Chris Iwelumo

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