When it comes to football there are few people that know more than my good friend Michael Volitich. Here in the US soccer is certainly on the rise but for me there is no competition that is better than the English Premier League. I regularly talk and debate with Michael about the game and last week we had a fervent discussion on who will win this year’s competition. It is still early to make predictions but these are the thoughts of Michael at this early stage, as to who the contenders will be.
Spurs
Despite losing 3 times already Spurs have had their best start to a Premier League campaign since the competition began and they will once again be there or thereabouts come May. Harry Kane has been firing since the start of the season and despite suffering some injury setbacks, Spurs have weathered the storm and go into the busy Christmas season with a full strength side. Not signing anyone in the summer however, may very well cost Pochettino’s men towards the end of the season. Prediction for Tottenham is a 3rd place finish.
Arsenal
Unai Emery has breathed new life into this Arsenal side and players like Lacazette and Aubemayang look reborn under the Spaniard. Arsenal are playing some scintillating football at the moment and their recent 11 game win streak has certainly bolstered their title hopes this year. Unfortunately Arsenal are still pretty soft in the middle so this year will be a stretch in terms of challenging for the title. Prediction for Arsenal is a 5th place finish.
Liverpool
Currently unbeaten after 11 games, Liverpool are grinding results out thanks to the new-look defense of Van Dijk and goalkeeper Alisson. The attacking 3 of Salah, Firmino and Mane are yet to get going however and when they do the Reds will no doubt be rampant. Jurgen Klopp knows how to win titles and even if the players do not, he can certainly guide them to glory. The prediction for Liverpool is that they will finish in 2nd place.
Chelsea
Sarri’s Chelsea have started in fine form and they too are unbeaten at this stage. Eden Hazard is playing like a man possessed and Chelsea will need him if they are going to mount a charge for the title. Unfortunately however Chelsea are relying on Hazard too much and players like Willian, Pedro and Morata have made slow starts to the season. Although there are many positives for Chelsea this year, we have them down to finish 4th, just a point or two behind Spurs.
Man City
After smashing almost every record that there is last year, Guardiola’s Man City appeared as though they couldn’t get any better, unfortunately for everyone else, they have. In fact this year looks as though Manchester City could easily go unbeaten and lift the title with more points than ever before. Buying Mahrez in the summer was a masterstroke and he, along with Sterling, Sane, Aguero, KDB and David Silva to name just a few, will take Manchester City to their 4th league title this year.
What are your picks for the Premier League title?
