It’s August again and that can only mean one thing. The Premier League is back. But come May, who will be where in the standings?
20) Huddersfield Town
Perhaps a cliche pick to place the Terriers bottom. However, with the most work to do out of all the sides going into the season. I’m unimpressed with their business. Despite this, David Wagner is highly capable and has proven critics wrong before.,
19) Swansea City
Swansea’s story in past seasons has been one of decline for the Swans. Last season saw them just about survive. However, with star Gylfi Sigurdsson look likely to exit. The season could be a struggle for the Welsh side.
18) Watford
I’m taking a punt here. Any of five or six sides could find themselves here. However, I don’t feel confident for Watford. Finishing 17th last season. They could tumble through the trap door if Marco Silva fails to get Deeney and Gray scoring.
17) Newcastle
Newcastle could easily find themselves in Watford position. However, I tip Rafa Benitez’s tactical knowhow to be enough to keep the Magpies afloat. A lack of investment has almost secured United’s position amongst the bottom six.
16) Brighton
Brighton look like a side who could become established in the Premier League. A good base with a stadium and great manager in charge. The Seagulls could prove tricky customers this season.
15) Crystal Palace
In Frank De Boer, Palace have found a man who can build a club. As shown at Ajax, De Boer comes with a blue print, however, don’t expect instant success. It may be a secure season for the Eagles with eyes on improvement next year.
14) Stoke City
The most unremarkable team in Premier League history will undoubtedly finish mid table. Stoke have a steady manager in Mark Hughes as well as some good players. However, no marque names coming in at the Bet365 Stadium will surely see a step backwards.
13) West Brom
West Brom are similar to Stoke. A side who seemingly stalk the middle of the Premier League. Whilst they lack quality in places. I wouldn’t expect trouble with steady Tony Pulis in charge.
12) Burnley
Burnley did remarkably well to stay up in the Premier League last term. With that, I back them to improve under Dyche. However, the sale of Gray may make goals more difficult.
11) Bournemouth
The entertaining Cherries will be looking to further improve under Eddie Howe. As the Englishman tries to impress FA chiefs into giving him the England job when Gareth Southgate is sacked next summer. Goals from Defoe will only strength the Cherries.
10) West Ham
Despite the big marquee names at the Olympic Stadium. I can’t see West Ham getting further than mid table.
9) Leicester
Leicester have a great goalscorers in Vardy and Iheanacho to go with a steady defence. Without the distractions of the Champions League expect a better season for the miracle men.
8) Southampton
Southampton are steady and always find themselves around this position. They will be striving for higher at St Mary’s but I can’t see it happening.
7) Everton
The Toffees have brought in quality in the likes of Rooney and Klaassen. However, I still believe they aren’t strong enough to break into the solid top six of the Premier League.
6) Arsenal
The club that never learn failed once again to sack Arsene Wenger. Despite the addition of Lacazette. Wenger seems set in his way and the Europa League could take it out of the Gunners. However, with Ozil and Sanchez staying and a new manager. I would have made Arsenal favourites for the league but they look set for disappointment.
5) Liverpool
I’m not overly impressed with Liverpool’s side. Furthermore, with Coutinho being courted by Barcelona, The side looks like it may get even weaker. With that their top four place may slip away.
4) Chelsea
You can already see the beginning of problems at Stamford Bridge this preseason. Antonio Conte has been unhappy and Diego Costa looks on the way out. His replacement Morata seems nowhere near the quality. It could be a tough one for the Champions.
3) Tottenham
After the inevitable shock to the system wears off, I expect another high-quality season for Spurs. Any side with Harry Kane’s goals will be challengers.
2) Manchester City
Pep’s first year was a disappointment. Whilst I don’t see them winning the league they will go close. With Pep’s masterplan coming together.
1) Manchester United
Jose has spent his money well. Matic was a huge success at Chelsea and Lukaku is a proven goalscorer. With a strengthened defence and players such as Pogba settled in. United may finally do it.
