Who Can Compete for the League Trophy in the 2023/24 Season of EPL?

Manchester City seized their third consecutive league title last season in their title run against Arsenal. However, as the dawn of a new season unfolds, the stage is set for interesting competitions.

While the champions celebrate their continued supremacy, another tale of tribulation unfolds on the opposite spectrum. A trio of teams—Southampton, Leicester, and Leeds—found themselves entangled in the clutches of relegation. With their departure, the stage is now set for Burnley, Sheffield United, and Luton Town to ascend to the grand stage of top-flight football.

As the clock ticks towards May 19, 2024, an air of excitement fills the conversations of football fans worldwide. Regarding football predictions, the storylines are diverse, and the ambitions are varied. But the question remains: Which teams are set to take the trophy home?

Top Contenders In Our Season Predictions

In the early moments of the 2023/2024 English Premier League season, the contenders for the league trophy are beginning to emerge. With barely two weeks to the September 1 transfer deadline, the decisions made during this time could turn contenders into strong challengers.

Below are the predicted top contenders in the EPL:

1. Manchester City

Manchester City emerged as the best last season. But times change, and City might not be as strong as they were just two months ago. They lost Gundogan and Mahrez, which hurts. Kovacic is a good addition, but not quite like Gundogan.

Manchester City also signed Josko Gvardiol, a true pro from RB Leipzig. Although his addition makes City's defense even better, some wonder if they should have focused on improving their attack.

The big question is what happens if Haaland, their star striker, gets injured. Last season, he stayed fit, and City reaped the rewards. But if he can't play, Alvarez might have a tough task. Their 100% win record in the new season has secured them second place in the EPL table behind Brighton.

2. Arsenal

One team that has unequivocally announced its intentions is Arsenal. Their decisive actions in the transfer market have made headlines. Bold acquisitions, including the likes of Declan Rice and Kai Havertz, underscore the team's commitment to fortifying its ranks. Getting Ajax defender Jurrien Timber further accentuates their strategic approach.

The significance of Arsenal's strategy is clear: they're not holding back in their pursuit of the league trophy. Declan Rice's arrival promises to bring power and leadership to the midfield, compensating for Granit Xhaka's departure. Tagged as heavy favorites, one doesn't need a crash course on football betting tips to know they're looking to secure a third consecutive win when they play Fulham at the Emirates this weekend. Arsenal remains one of three teams that have won their first two games this season.

Read Also: Top 10 deadline day deals in the Premier League

3. Newcastle United

The traditional 'Big Six' is facing competition from Newcastle United. Led by Eddie Howe and backed by substantial resources, the Tynesiders have secured talents like Sandro Tonali, Harvey Barnes, and Tino Livramento.

Despite securing a remarkable fourth place last season, Newcastle's Champions League debut demands better readiness. All that happened last season was a signal of Newcastle's determination to stay at the forefront. The EPL's landscape is evolving, with Newcastle's rise adding a fresh layer of excitement to the league.

4. Liverpool

Liverpool, led by Jurgen Klopp, is poised for a resurgence. Klopp acknowledges their 22/23 season fell short, prompting a revamp. The departures of veteran players like Milner, Fabinho, and Henderson mark a new era. Emerging talents like Szoboszlai and Mac Allister join, while Diaz's return and Nunez's growth add strength. With this translation of play, Liverpool is set to mount a spirited challenge for the league trophy.

5. Manchester United

Manchester United, under the guidance of manager Erik ten Hag, stands out as a team to watch. A productive summer transfer window saw key additions like Mason Mount, Andre Onana, and Rasmus Hojlund address crucial gaps in the squad.

Erik Ten Hag, who excelled in his debut at Old Trafford, led Manchester United to a League Cup victory, an FA Cup final, and a top-four return. His bold decisions, like overseeing Ronaldo's exit and standing against huge wage demands, reflect authority reminiscent of Ferguson. Yet, this season's start with a lackluster display against Wolves and a 2-0 loss to top-four rival Tottenham raises concerns.

Read Also: List of every Premier League summer transfer in 2023

6. Chelsea

Chelsea had a shambolic 22/23 but now has Mauricio Pochettino in charge for the new 23/24 season. However, with two games played this new season, the club still faces an interesting challenge. Despite a summer of changes, they haven't added a striker with a killer instinct to their squad. This missing piece in their lineup creates a puzzle for the new coach.  Christopher Nkunku's absence due to knee surgery and the potential departure of Romelu Lukaku add to the complexity.

Chelsea's journey ahead is shrouded in uncertainty. Will they recover from last season's setbacks? Pochettino's influence will take time, but finding a striker quickly is crucial. They're yet to secure a win, and despite their loss to West Ham, they will live to fight another day.

7. Tottenham

Postecoglou, new to the Premier League, brings an idealistic attacking approach, a stark contrast to the tactical styles of Mourinho and Conte. Uncertainty shrouds whether Postecoglou's philosophy will thrive in the Premier League, but early signs are positive. A hard-earned point against Brentford and a commanding victory over Manchester United highlight a team eager to establish its presence in a huge way. Having a +90 edge in their next fixture is bound to bolster their confidence even more.

Conclusion

The 2023/24 EPL season promises a captivating narrative as familiar giants like Manchester City, Arsenal, and Liverpool seek to maintain their legacy. Emerging challengers like Newcastle United and Tottenham bring fresh excitement to football predictions. With strategic acquisitions, tactical shifts, and the specter of unpredictability, the league is primed for entertaining moments.