Without a doubt, the English Premier League is the best league in the world. It attracts global audience. It also attracts the best players, the best coaches and the best viewing audience. That is why the league is awash with cash and other top leagues in Europe cannot compete when it comes to activities in the transfer market.
Many teams in the league have strengthened this season. Liverpool, despite winning the title last season, have spent a significant amount of money. They have spent over 450 million pounds and adding Isak to the team from Newcastle could be the game changer.
Arsenal too have strengthened significantly. For the first time, they brought in eight very good players. The number of players brought in gave Arsenal the squad depth that was hitherto lacking. Now, when a star player is injured, there is a quality backup to step in.
Manchester (Man) City and Chelsea have also brought in quality additions to a very good squad. Man City started their rebuilding in January and they were also active in the market during the summer transfer window. Chelsea as usual are big spenders especially under the new owners.
The race this year would be between Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea and Man City. We would probably see the most competitive premier league season ever. Any of these four teams can win the league, but I pick Liverpool as the frontrunners. The reason is obvious. Despite winning the league last season, beating Arsenal to second place, the quality of players brought in have improved the team significantly.
But Arsenal is not far behind. Injuries have always affected them in the last three seasons especially in the run-in. Saka and Havertz were injured last year in the run-in. Saliba in the years before. This season, Saka, Havertz and Saliba were already injured and it didn’t affect the team significantly.
So, who wins the title this season? Defence wins you titles. And in the last three seasons, Arsenal have had the best defence though they ended up second. The reason was lack of depth in the squad and the absence of a prolific striker. Now, the club can boast of a solid squad. Perhaps the best squad in the league when you consider the backup to the starting players.
Based on their defensive solidity and the acquisition of Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting Lisbon, arguably the most prolific striker in Europe last season, this may be the year that Arsenal would win the league. I think Liverpool would push them all the way.
It would be close, it would be tough. There would be drama along the way. But I think Arsenal would win the Premier League narrowly. Liverpool would come second. Chelsea third and Man City fourth. I think Tottenham would come in at the fifth position and Newcastle should come in at 6th position.
That is what I see in my crystal ball. Arsenal’s time has come. Arteta would finally deliver. The fans have trusted the process for six long years. They are about to be rewarded. Arsenal would win the English Premier League this season. You can take it to the bank.
@ MAYOR AKINPELU’S DIARY
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