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Arsenal
Having finally got the title monkey off our back, and with much of the competition in a state of flux, there’s plenty of optimism. Obviously the target is for Arteta to sustain the same appetite and intensity to mount a credible defence. The big questions are whether we can reproduce the same resilience at the back with Saliba on the long-term missing list, and will the introduction of Guimarães be the catalyst for the sort of midfield chemistry we’ll need to carve open opponents who plan to park the bus?
Key players/weak links On the evidence of our pre-season outings we urgently need the return of our remaining World Cup stars – Rice, Zubimendi and Saka should provide a renewed sense of purpose, both to counter any defensive fragility and to increase our goal threat. We’re all hoping for a breakthrough season for a beefed-up Max Dowman, and are anxious to discover if Tzolis is an upgrade on Trossard.
We still need to sign … Our friendly outings have shown the need for alternative attacking options, such as Atlético’s Julián Álvarez, and cover for Saliba – Quanseh and Konsa are linked. But presumably any further arrivals will be dependent on some astute pruning of those who’ve failed to cut the mustard, such as Vieira and Nelson.
Our cult hero is … Benny Blanco’s off-the-ball shenanigans ensure that he’s enshrined as a firm terrace favourite, but it’s the demeanour of Declan Rice that will invariably set the tone for whether or not we’re destined for more success.
If we could sign two players from our past … Who wouldn’t want to add the artistry of Thierry Henry and Dennis Bergkamp to any team?
We will finish 1st. Top four: 1. Arsenal; 2. Chelsea; 3. Manchester City; 4. Liverpool. Bottom three: 18. Coventry; 19. Ipswich; 20. Hull. First manager sacked Sergej Jakirovic.
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Bernard Azulay onlinegooner.com; @GoonerN5
Aston Villa
It would be daft to not be optimistic when each year under Emery we’ve created great memories, regardless of the previous summer’s transfer merry-go-round. Top six and a cup run of any flavour would count as a good season, and it may be that our best moments are back-end weighted as we integrate some exciting new talent. I understand that Manzambi is the best thing to come out of Switzerland since the cuckoo clock, and any 22-year-old with 187 senior appearances (Garnacho) must be all right. Perversely, the financial regulations that are holding us back should prevent too much moaning if we don’t get off to a flyer, and having a ground with only three sides might even help us make VP a fortress. In all, I’m fired up for the new season.
Key players/weak links The senior pros all need to keep drinking the Emery Kool Aid, but why wouldn’t they? Konsa remains a colossus and the purple prose around McGinn is fully deserved. If Kamara plays 40 senior games and not his usual 25 it will improve our finishing spot by two. Normally naming a young player to watch in these pages guarantees them a loan move to Lincoln, but Brian Madjo has looked immense up front in pre-season.
We still need to sign … Marcus Rashford.
Our cult hero is … McGinn must already have done enough to have a hospitality suite named after him. Another two years and it could be a stand. He will be aware that Emery doesn’t deal in sentimentality so I expect yet another year in which SJM pushes for player of the season while being a key figure in the dressing room.
If we could sign two players from our past … Dwight Yorke, from 1995-96 when he switched to an out-and-out striker. And Gareth Barry: the complete midfielder.
We will finish 6th. Top four: 1. Arsenal; 2. Manchester City; 3. Manchester United; 4. Chelsea. Bottom three: 18. Fulham; 19. Ipswich; 20. Hull. First manager sacked Roberto De Zerbi.
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Jonathan Pritchard
Bournemouth
We’re so looking forward to this: our first ever season in a European club competition. It’s going to be monumental. And, with arguably our strongest ever squad to call on, we expect to be competitive in the Europa League too. We’re excited to see Marco Rose in charge and a continuation of the fast, attacking, no-fear brand of football that earned us our highest ever finish last season. In view of the extra games we have on the schedule, a mid-table Premier League finish would be very respectable, but winning a trophy feels weirdly achievable. Why not a European one?
Key players/weak links António Silva has big Senesi-sized shoes to fill at centre-half but we expect big things from him. We’re also looking forward to the impact that new striker Álvaro Rodríguez and the attacking right-back Juanlu will bring. Watch out too for a fully fit Ben Gannon-Doak – a breakthrough season beckons for him.
We still need to sign … Business is pretty much done. We’re in a good place, with maybe one or two to go out on loan deals towards the end of the window.
Our cult hero is … Long-serving veteran defender Adam Smith continues to perform at the highest level, an incredible 16 years after his debut for the club. He epitomises the journey we’ve been on and we love him for it.
If we could sign two players from our past … It would be hard to turn down a peak Nathan Aké or Callum Wilson, but then with the squad that we have now, I’m not convinced they would get into a starting 11. Perhaps, with Junior Kroupi out for a few months, there might be a place for a natural finisher like Jermain Defoe. Better still, prime Ted MacDougall would score hatfuls every week in this team.
We will finish 12th. Top four: 1. Manchester City; 2. Arsenal; 3. Liverpool; 4. Manchester United. Bottom three: 18. Hull; 19. Ipswich; 20. Leeds. First manager sacked Xabi Alonso.
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Jeff Hayward Back of the Net, the AFC Bournemouth Fan’s Podcast
Photograph: Robin Jones/AFC Bournemouth/Getty Images
Brentford
I’m very optimistic. Twelve months ago we had Yoane Wissa refusing to train to force a move and the footballing world was convinced that our free-kick coach turned manager would get us relegated. Fast forward a year and things feel very different. We’ve had a proper pre-season, there’s a clear tactical approach and, importantly, we’ve signed players who can actually execute it. The target? Keep improving. If we can get a European spot this season, that would be another sign that we’re moving forward year-on-year. For a club like Brentford, that’s a pretty exciting prospect.
Key players/weak links There’s a lot of excitement around new signing Mamadou Sangaré – so much so that he’s already got his own song. Callum Wilson is a shrewd signing too, and, at this stage of his career, seems happy to sit on the bench and knock a few in when called upon. Our explosive front three of Ouattara, Thiago and Schade have now had time to gel, and should cause plenty of problems. As for youngsters, 11 players aged 21 or under are vying for a place in the final 25-man squad. 19-year-old striker – and rapper – Kaye Furo is highly rated, as is 20-year-old centre-back Jannik Schuster. It’s a good sign that we’re getting to the point where our youngsters aren’t just making up the numbers
We still need to sign … If there’s one position we could strengthen, left-back would be a good option. El Hadji Malick Diouf from West Ham has been rumoured.
Our cult hero is … Michael Kayode. Cemented his status by singing his own terrace chant on camera: “He eats spaghetti, he drinks Moretti, he hates Queens Park Rangers.”
If we could sign two players from our past … We’re probably a bit too “nice”. Whenever we need a short injection of old-school fire, fight and chaos, Terry Evans from our 1992 Division One-winning side and Terry Hurlock from that incredible 80s “Kamara, Bowles, Hurlock” midfield would be great to call upon.
We will finish 6th. Top four: 1. Manchester City; 2. Arsenal; 3. Manchester United; 4. Bournemouth. Bottom three: 18. Fulham; 19. Ipswich; 20. Hull. First manager sacked I got it spot-on last season, predicting two consecutive Forest sackings. Surely Glasner isn’t next on the cards? OK, go on then …
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Billy Grant Beesotted podcast and blog; @Beesotted; @BillyTheBee99
Brighton
Having seen West Ham, Chelsea and even Crystal Palace go all the way in the Conference League, the main target is doing well in that and winning a first cup final since the 1910 Charity Shield. Am I optimistic about it happening? Not really. The competition looks tougher this year. Freiburg, Atalanta and Monaco all have proper European experience. Even the playoff round against Tromsø is a banana skin. I’m old enough to remember some pretty horrible trips to Carlisle when Brighton could never win north of Lake Windermere. Let alone inside the actual Arctic Circle.
Key players/weak links The key player will be whoever Fabian Hürzeler uses to fill the void left by selling Danny Welbeck: Georginio Rutter, Charalampos Kostoulas or Stefanos Tzimas. Not only did Welbeck score 13 goals last season, but most were vital equalisers or important winners worth 13 points. Allowing him to join Chelsea is a huge risk. If none of those younger alternatives who the club want playing more this season step up and replace Welbeck, there’s the weak link. And there are big question marks over all three.
We still need to sign … Danny Welbeck from Chelsea would be a good signing for his goals record and the experience he would bring to a young squad.
Our cult hero is … Rutter. Nothing says cult hero quite like having one Instagram account about your football career and another about the racehorses you own. With the racing one being more interesting.
If we could sign two players from our past … I’ll spare you another Welbeck answer and say Glenn Murray and Bobby Zamora instead. Hopefully, I’ll be able to revisit this on 3 June 2027 after we’ve just won the Conference League and Kostoulas has hit 46 goals in all competitions. Danny who?
We will finish 13th. Top four: 1. Arsenal; 2. Manchester United; 3. Manchester City; 4. Chelsea; Bottom three: 18. Sunderland; 19. Ipswich; 20. Hull. First manager sacked Oliver Glasner.
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Scott McCarthy WeAreBrighton.com
Photograph: Matthew Childs/Action Images/Reuters
Chelsea
A new top manager, some decent new signings and a feelgood factor within the squad – it’s hard not to be optimistic. We’ve finally brought some experienced players who should complement our younger players and take them to the next level. With no Champions League football, the target has to be top four and a good run in the domestic cups.
Key players/weak links We’ve strengthened in most areas so it’s key that the new signings make a quick impact. Palmer and Colwill will hopefully have fully recovered, too, and will hit the floor running. Really looking forward to seeing Morgan Rogers in a blue shirt and Marco Palestra looks promising. I still worry with Sánchez in goal, though, and Penders might be a bit green for the Premier League. As for youngsters, I’d add Reggie Watson to the squad as a wildcard. He impressed in pre-season, giving off real John Terry vibes. How is he only 16?
We still need to sign … If Enzo Fernández goes he’ll need replacing; Alex Scott and Adam Wharton have both been heavily linked and either would be a good choice, adding to the English spine of the team. The rest of the squad looks very balanced with strength in depth. At this stage of the window the main focus will be on trimming the squad to a manageable level.
Our cult hero is … In a team with few real characters I’m hoping some of the new signings will shake the squad up a bit. I’ve a feeling Pep Chavarria could quickly become a fan favourite with some dark arts. Cole Palmer will continue to entertain on and off the pitch with his great interviews.
If we could sign two players from our past … John Terry to marshal the defence and Frank Lampard to bang the goals in. Both players gave 100% every time they stepped on the pitch and were also fantastic motivators. Two absolute legends who would grace any team in any era.
We will finish Fourth. Top four: 1. Arsenal; 2. Manchester United; 3. Manchester City; 4. Chelsea. Bottom three: 18. Newcastle; 19. Ipswich; 20. Hull. First manager sacked Sergej Jakirovic.
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Paul Baker in memory of Trizia Fiorellino
Coventry
There’s no downside to choosing optimism, so yes, we’re optimistic. I don’t expect a top-half finish but I do enjoy how the club’s being run and believe in our ability to compete. Clearly the target is to survive, but within that, if we can showcase what’s good about us and provide a challenge, that would be a very acceptable return.
Key players/weak links The money we’ve spent is basically unfathomable, but my focus has been on those who were so critical to our promotion. Matt Grimes connects everyone in the team so we’re relying on him doing that again, else we’ll have to develop a completely new way to function. Signing keeper Carl Rushworth also gives assurance at the back that we hope will translate into points. There are questions about our strikers (which feels barmy for a team that scored 97 goals last season). It’s not complicated – we simply don’t know if Wright and Simms have what it takes to score at the highest level. Aside from signing Aurèle Amenda, we haven’t touched our defence either. It’s a bold strategy. Liam Kitching and Jay Dasilva have improved significantly, but it’s hard to ignore the notion that we’re relying on players like this finding another uptick. However, new signing Caleb Yirenkyi looks very special.
We still need to sign … We saw how vital Brian Brobbey was for Sunderland last season. A dynamic, high-status striker would go a long way towards calming the nerves about our forward line. Is Taiwo Awoniyi able to be that guy? Let’s hope so. The rumours about Fikayo Tomori are exciting. If we could bring him in, good lord.
Our cult hero is … While the returning Gus Hamer is clearly our cult hero, Milan van Ewijk is the joker of the team. You’ll find him front and centre of every celebration. But don’t let the daftness fool you; he’s a serious, serious player.
If we could sign two players from our past … The original version of James Maddison was unlike anything I’ve ever seen. His game has adapted with age, which is a shame, but I’d love some of that early ingenuity. I’d also welcome back Viktor Gyökeres. He functions far better when he believes he’s the star man. Come home Vik and bash your way to upwards of nine Premier League goals for Coventry.
We will finish 17th. Top four: 1. Manchester City, 2. Chelsea, 3. Arsenal, 4. Manchester United. Bottom three: 18. Ipswich, 19. Fulham, 20. Hull. First manager sacked Daniel Farke.
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Neil Allison @skybluesblog, Nii Lamptey Show Podcast
Crystal Palace
What are we expecting? Right now, it’s really difficult to say. The only key player to have exited (so far) is Maxence Lacroix, on whom we made a massive profit, but we still have to strengthen the squad so that it can cope with the rigours of going deep in the Europa League without risking our Premier League campaign – a lesson learned from last season. Lots of incoming deals seem close, but not yet over the line.
Key players/weak links Ismaïla Sarr and J-P Mateta will once again be essential, given the lack of goals in the rest of the squad. Adam Wharton will show how insane it was for Tuchel to leave him out of the World Cup, and Tyrick Mitchell will continue to excel on the left. Jaydee Canvot, still only 20, is destined to be a superb centre-back and should grow further in stature this season.
We still need to sign … There’s been some solid business already – US teenager Zavier Gozo and right-back Anan Khalaili look exciting prospects, and Evann Guessand is welcome back from Villa. But we still need a replacement for Lacroix, and strength in the middle – we had a £35m bid for Monaco’s Lamine Camara rejected. Plenty still to do. Meanwhile, the decision to swap Dwight McNeil for Brennan Johnson has split opinion: Johnson – all £35m of him – was only here a few months.
Our cult hero is … A few contenders. Mateta, obviously, chant-leader Dean Henderson and, potentially, our Brazilian attacker Matheus França. He’s not there yet, but he joined the club three years ago at 19 and has barely made an impact for various reasons. But he’s had a strong pre-season, including dancing goal celebrations – some Brazilian flair would go down very well at Selhurst.
If we could sign two players from our past … Michael Olise without a doubt; he was clearly a world-class player at Palace and has continued to progress spectacularly. And Matt Jansen, from the late 90s – a personal hero of mine; such incredible talent at such a young age and would shine in the modern era.
We will finish 14th. Top four: 1. Arsenal; 2. Manchester City; 3. Chelsea; 4. Tottenham. Bottom three: 18. Newcastle; 19. Ipswich; 20. Hull; First manager sacked Matthias Jaissle.
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Chris Waters @Clapham_Grand
Everton
Despite the £327m the Friedkins have provided since the takeover, there are still doubts about the scale of their ambition. Recruitment is tough, the process (Moyes or committee as decision makers) is uncertain. Realistically, aiming for eighth (and European qualification) is the likely limit. Does that make Blues feel optimistic? Unlikely. The 31-year wait for a trophy hangs heavy on our hearts and minds.
Key players/weak links Midfield is looking stronger but can Beto/Barry score 20 goals between them? Tyrique George (acquired from Chelsea) is a key signing. The right side of the pitch remains problematic. A couple of youngsters to watch: Harrison Armstrong, 19, made his breakthrough last season, and, even younger at 18, Braiden Graham, the Northern Ireland forward signed from Linfield.
We still need to sign … A right-back. Jake O’Brien, who has been covering there, is a fabulous centre-back and would be perfect in the middle alongside Branthwaite. A proven goalscorer would be a bonus, as would a right-winger.
Our cult hero is … Jordan Pickford. His contribution to Everton maintaining top-flight status and his excellence in goal for England are shamefully under-reported in the media. We are blessed to have such a dedicated player who loves playing for his country, the club and his fans.
If we could sign two players from our past … Alan Ball, the best outfield player to play for the club in my opinion, never stopped running, commanded midfield, was skilful and a great passer and had a tremendous shot – he had it all, and would walk into any Premier League side of any generation. What would he be worth today? And a 17-year-old Wayne Rooney.
We will finish I said eighth last season, the optimist says eighth again. But realistically, 10th. Top four: 1. Arsenal; 2. Liverpool; 3. Manchester United; 4. Aston Villa. Bottom three: 18. Tottenham; 19. Coventry; 20. Hull. First manager sacked Oliver Glasner, not because he deserves it, but because of the owner.
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Paul Quinn @theesk, theesk.org
Fulham
I’m always optimistic at this stage of the summer – but there’s a bit of trepidation mixed in this time round. How on earth do you make an informed judgment on our chances when so much has changed? It’s farewell (and thanks) to Marco Silva and a warm welcome to Álvaro Arbeloa, who brings with him a new set of backroom staff, a fresh approach and a determination to write a new chapter. Seems we’re set for a new, dynamic strategy, one that’ll keep us on the edge of our seats. In a good way, hopefully.
Key players/weak links We expect striker Gonzalo García (22) and versatile midfielder César Palacios (21) to hit the ground running. The Spanish duo have followed their former boss from Real Madrid knowing that running hard is part of the deal. Another midfielder, Shea Charles (22), also joined the fold, and, as well as helping to lower the average age of the squad, the trio will be eager to discard their “promising” tags by excelling in the top flight. Arbeloa may well turn to the youth ranks too, with 18-year-old winger Macaulay Zepa one to watch.
We still need to sign … If Arbeloa gets his way there’ll be further additions, probably to freshen up the back four. And maybe a younger keeper who’s good with his feet to take over from Leno.
Our cult hero is … For humour, the Naija Boys – Iwobi and Bassey – who will no doubt continue their off-pitch antics and comedic Instagram stories, although they’re a man light now that Chukwueze has headed back to Milan. Unless someone else steps up, captain Tom Cairney remains the main man, still capable of scoring match-winning worldies after parking his antique bath chair at the side of the pitch.
If we could sign two players from our past … Obvious goal-getter up front would be Louis Saha. And the super-strong Mousa Dembélé bossing things in central midfield would suit AA’s style perfectly.
We will finish 14th. Top four: 1. Arsenal; 2. Manchester City; 3. Manchester United; 4. Chelsea. Bottom three: 18. Coventry; 19. Ipswich; 20. Hull. First manager sacked Matthias Jaissle.
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David Lloyd @DMLTOOFIF
Hull
I’m very optimistic. Sure, chances are that we’ll get relegated but we’ll certainly not be the pushovers people are expecting us to be. We thrive when we’re being written off, as last season showed, and have a pragmatic manager who has us playing brilliant, transitional football which suits the Premier League. We could definitely upset a lot of teams and maybe, just maybe, even stay up.
Key players/weak links As the squad currently stands, Oli McBurnie, Mohamed Belloumi and Charlie Hughes will be the key faces. But with new signings arriving to add some much-needed experience and necessary skill, that may change. Hidemasa Morita has been an absolute coup on a free, so he may be one to keep an eye on. Full-back is still a problem position for us: there’s only Ryan Giles on the left and questions over Lewie Coyle and Cody Drameh at this level on the right. Thanks to a late flurry in the window we’ve now got a healthy plethora of young talent hoping to break through. 18-year-old Australian Lucas Herrington comes as a fully fledged international and had the likes of Barcelona sniffing around before signing for us.
We still need to sign … We still really need depth in the full back areas and desperately need a forward or two to compete with McBurnie. We could do with some more Premier League experience across the back line, too, as well as another back-up goalkeeper thanks to Jack Butland’s lengthy injury.
Our cult hero is … Definitely McBurnie. He’s a handful for every defender and a constant wind-up merchant. The kind of player you hate to be against but love to have in your team.
If we could sign two players from our past … I would have Jarrod Bowen on the wing and Andy Robertson in at left-back. Strangely, they were two transfers I thought might actually happen this summer following West Ham’s relegation and Robertson leaving Liverpool on a free. Alas, it wasn’t to be.
We will finish 17th. Top four: 1. Arsenal; 2. Man City; 3. Liverpool; 4. Man United. Bottom three: 18. Crystal Palace; 19. Ipswich; 20. Coventry. First manager sacked Frank Lampard.
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Ant Northgraves To Hull & Back Podcast
Ipswich
Having endured the Premier League two years ago, the fans know what to expect: eyes are well and truly open. The momentum and hope we had two seasons ago was stopped in its tracks pretty swiftly once the season started. This time round, the summer’s transfer business looks of a better quality, more robust, a step up in quality, giving us half a chance of survival and a smidge of optimism.
Key players/weak links Sasa Lukic looks to be exactly the type of signing we need to be making. 30 years old, good Premier League experience to add some no-nonsense mettle and physicality. There will need to be more like him and Issa Diop through the spine of the team. One youngster to watch: Sindre Walle Egeli has just turned 20, and signed for a Championship record fee of £17.5m last August. He had an up-and-down season but has had really good pre-season in the No 10 role.
We still need to sign … A senior striker, to take the pressure off our new, young Brazilian forward Emersonn, who was Gary O’Neil’s first signing when he joined from Toulouse for £25m in July. We were strongly linked with Callum Wilson before he went to Brentford. I do wonder whether we’ll get to the end of August and land Zian Flemming from Burnley.
Our cult hero is … Of the current players, Marcelino Núñez is probably the closest. He has plenty of credit in the bank after his transfer, last summer, from a lower league club. That said, Florentino Luís’s early social media posts mean he has serious potential in this category. We’ve already had AI farmers and Suffolk Punches on Insta & TikTok …
If we could sign two players from our past … Paul Mariner for his all-round presence at the top of the pitch. He would be ideal as the central striker in the modern game. And Matt Holland as a leader and box-to-box midfield general.
We will finish 16th. Top four: 1. Arsenal; 2. Manchester City; 3. Manchester United; 4. Chelsea. Bottom three: 18. Fulham; 19. Coventry; 20. Hull. First manager sacked Álvaro Arbeloa.
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Craig Finbow @BlueMondayITFC; bluemondayitfc.co.uk
Leeds
At the end of last season Daniel Farke challenged the owner, 49ers Enterprises, to move on from just surviving in the Premier League. So this summer Leeds have broken our transfer record for goalkeeper James “next Nigel Martyn” Trafford, paid £34m for defender Tarik Muharemovic, and gone back for Harry Wilson, one of last season’s top creators in the Premier League. Over to you, Daniel. His challenge now is turning ambition into results fast enough to prove he’s the manager to move Leeds on from just surviving. A long-lusted-for new West Stand is under construction at Elland Road and the mood is good, which can be dangerous for a self-professed massive club in the bottom half of the Premier League.
Key players/weak links The main strength, and weakness, is Dominic Calvert-Lewin. He’s our key goalscorer, but doesn’t have much back-up. Left-back is similar, but Jayden Lienou is a promising teenage understudy for Gabriel Gudmundsson.
We still need to sign … The priority is a striker to help Calvert-Lewin and Lukas Nmecha. There are rumours, though, about adding more flair for the forward line.
Our cult hero is … Anton Stach’s YouTube channel is, thankfully, a delightful contribution to happiness in our world. He’s been wandering the streets of Leeds incognito asking people what they have for breakfast, and filming himself buying EU plug adaptors in Boots. On Instagram, his partner’s gameday graphics have brought Sharknados to Elland Road. Good, wholesome stuff.
If we could sign two players from our past … The correct back-up for DCL would be Luciano Becchio. To add some suaveness to our bustling midfield, Gary McAllister.
We will finish 12th. Top four: 1. Arsenal; 2. Aston Villa; 3. Liverpool; 4. Manchester City. Bottom three: 18. Sunderland; 19. Hull; 20. Coventry. First manager sacked Frank Lampard.
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Daniel Chapman leedsista.com, @leedsista.com
Liverpool
I’m always optimistic about a new season, but this one feels very much like a new beginning for us and a real unknown. We start minus a few familiar faces alongside a new manager and some new signings, but that’s balanced with Van Dijk and Alisson still being here and others who’ve been at the club a while now. I’d put little store by the pre-season results or that Iraola said we can’t run after 60 minutes – he didn’t mean it – and we’ll see how it goes when it all kicks off for real next week. We have top players, the boss comes with a style that fits in with the club and I believe we’ll do well. The target is to be up there fighting for a top spot next May.
Key players/weak links At the back with all their experience, Van Dijk and Alisson will be crucial. There’s a big gap to fill up front, but Isak now has the chance to stake his claim after a nightmare season for him last time around. Wirtz too will want to show he can adapt to the pace of the Premier League and be a force. As for youngsters, Rio Ngumoha has already shown what he can do and the more he plays the better he will become. Trey Nyoni is pulling in the plaudits for his midfield play and if Giovanni Leoni continues his recovery he too has the potential to nail down a place.
We still need to sign … Defenders. Despite bringing in a couple, including Ifeanyi Ndukwe who won’t count yet, it still feels as if we need a solid centre-back and right-back for the immediate and long-term future. Konsa or Murillo at Forest? A central midfielder to help out Gravenberch and an attacker who plays on the right – Ibrahim Mbaye has been mooted, though PSG might balk at the idea of us coming after two players, because Barcola is a done deal. Apparently.
Our cult hero is … Not sure we have one at the minute, we need someone to step up.
If we could sign two players from our past … Alan Hansen to partner Van Dijk, and Steven Gerrard to inspire and work his magic from midfield all over the pitch.
We will finish 1st. Top four: 1. Liverpool; 2. Arsenal; 3. Chelsea; 4. Manchester City. Bottom three: 18. Nottingham Forest; 19. Ipswich; 20. Hull. First manager sacked Pierre Sage.
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Steph Jones
Manchester City
I’m excited; it’s a new dawn under Maresca. Naturally, every City fan loved Pep’s reign. We know we’ll never have it as good again. And I doubt we’ll ever see a more dominant managerial era in the Premier League. But after 10 years, naturally, there’s something exciting about a fresh start. The target is simple: we need to win the league back. The last team that weren’t City to retain the title were United in 2008-09. It’s our job to make it incredibly difficult for Arsenal.
Key players/weak links To temper the optimism slightly, losing Rodri, if it happens, is obviously a massive blow. He’s the best No 6 in the world, without doubt. So by definition, he’s irreplaceable. Having said that, given his age (30), the club were always planning to sign his successor this summer. And in adding Anderson and Bouaddi, it feels like Viana has done excellent business. The key players will be Haaland, Semenyo, Gvardiol, Donnarumma, O’Reilly, Cherki, Foden (if he can recover his level) and Doku. They’re the most nailed-on starters (plus Anderson). Youngster to watch? Ryan McAidoo.
We still need to sign … We’re still lacking depth out wide. McAidoo looks really promising. But if Doku or Semenyo pick up an injury, then currently (pending the Spurs interest) we’d have to rely on Savinho. He’d burnt most City fans’ heads out last season … so much natural talent, but an infuriating lack of end product. Hopefully we upgrade him if he goes. Right-back is also a concern for me: too much depends on Nunes (again).
Our cult hero is … Has to be Haaland, doesn’t it? The bloke’s dripping in aura. The manner in which he schooled Gabriel v Brazil at the World Cup … delicious. More of that please.
If we could sign two players from our past … Raheem Sterling was ridiculously good in his prime. Just relentless. He’d be perfect for Maresca’s system, with wingers isolated one-v-one. And Aymeric Laporte: vastly underrated, I think he’s still good enough to play for us!
We will finish 2nd. Top four: 1. Arsenal; 2. Manchester City; 3. Chelsea; 4. Tottenham. Bottom three: 18. Fulham; 19. Ipswich; 20. Hull. First manager sacked Sergej Jakirovic.
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Lloyd Scragg 9320pod.com; @lloyd_scragg
Manchester United
Carrick is getting the best out of a group who were spectacularly mismanaged for a couple of years. The difference he made in six months was ridiculous. After the longest goodbye in recent history, Casemiro has gone, replaced by midfielders who can actually run – but we could still be reliant on keeping injury-prone Mount fit. I hope it’s not a case of Glazernomics repeating itself, where we spend to qualify for the Champions League, then go shopping in the bargain bin once we’ve qualified. Give Carrick another couple of decent signings and I genuinely think we can challenge: Arsenal fell over the line, City have lost their greatest-ever manager, Liverpool’s defence already looks shot through and Chelsea have 35 first-team players, which should present its own problems. Realistically, I think we will finish third.
Key players/weak links We are looking forward to the link-up play between Tielemans and Bruno. Tielemans’s eye for a pass will be a boon for our forwards. I can see Sesko building on a decent first season but if we’re competing on four fronts we need to sign another striker. The weak spot is still left-back. Luke Shaw being fit was almost a miracle last season, but we can’t build a season around hoping his body holds together.
We still need to sign … A left-back, Lewis Hall would be my choice. We need another striker, we will probably get last-resort Watkins on the last day of the window, hopefully a straight swap for Rashford.
Our cult hero is … Carrick. He went from being the quiet bloke in the background to dragging United into the Champions League. There’s something very satisfying about a former United player coming back and actually understanding what the club is supposed to be.
If we could sign two players from our past … Robson and Rooney. Captain Marvel in midfield for the leadership, aggression and sheer refusal to accept defeat. Rooney because he was everything you want from a modern forward: technically brilliant, ferocious, selfless and capable of playing anywhere on the pitch.
We will finish 3rd. Top four: 1. Arsenal; 2. Manchester City; 3. Manchester United; 4. Liverpool. Bottom three: 18. Sunderland; 19. Leeds; 20. Ipswich. First manager sacked Oliver Glasner: gone before Halloween.
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Shaun O’Donnell
Newcastle
We’re hurting. We’ve lost our most successful manager in decades, plus his talismanic captain. A-listers have departed and we’ve been humiliated in the transfer market, for the second summer running. Yes, a reset was needed, but we weren’t expecting it to be like this. At least, in Matthias Jaissle, we have a hungry, passionate young manager whose intensity will be welcomed. He certainly looks up for the fight and, despite our outgoings, the German has some exciting talent to work with. According to CEO David Hopkinson, this is “Newcastle United 2.0”. We guess we’ll know what that means in a few months’ time.
Key players/weak links Lewis Miley is “one of our own” and, with Tonali gone, can fulfil his potential. We’ll also be expecting improvements between the posts, with Lukas Hornicek and Ewen Jaouen competing for the keeper’s jersey. And if Yoane Wissa and Anthony Elanga can replicate their World Cup form, we might have a strike force on our hands. The weak links? Joe Willock, who contributed very little to the cause last season and, sadly, Sven Botman, whose form has never recovered from his anterior cruciate ligament injury in 2024.
We still need to sign … A replacement for Bruno Guimarães, leaders on and off the field, high-grade cover at both full-back positions, a centre-half … so not too much to ask … Benfica’s versatile full-back Amar Dedić and Milan’s centre-half Fikayo Tomori would certainly be a good start. Crucially, we need to blend more experience into our youthful side, but any deals will have to be done in stealth mode, given Liverpool’s recent behaviour …
Our cult hero is … Big Dan Burn. A giant of a man, with a heart to match.
If we could sign two players from our past … Alan Shearer for his leadership and goals, and of course, the much-loved, and much-missed, Kevin Keegan. Both knew what it meant to wear the black-and-white shirt.
We will finish 10th. Top four: 1. Arsenal; 2. Manchester City; 3. Liverpool; 4. Chelsea. Bottom three: 18. Ipswich; 19. Coventry; 20. Hull. First manager sacked Álvaro Arbeloa.
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David and Richard Holmes
Nottingham Forest
If nothing else, it can’t be as chaotic as last season. We survived fairly comfortably in the end – thanks Vítor! – then sacked him in favour of Glasner, with the rationale being that the Austrian has won silverware. So the target this time isn’t only a decent league finish, but also something in the cabinet.
Key players/weak links The key, like last season, will be Morgan Gibbs-White: the talisman, the on-pitch leader, and the guy who makes things happen for the Reds. After being overlooked for Tommy T’s England squad, he will be keen to continue to show his worth.
We still need to sign … Getting Ousmane Diomande feels important; Murillo and Milenkovic make a great pair but we were still vulnerable in defence last season, and the new guy should balance with the attributes of the established duo. For all that we have loads of wingers, we do desperately need a reliable striker: we cannot continue to rely on a 35-year-old with a chronic knee problem (Chris Wood) and a Nigerian powerhouse who is made of biscuits (Taiwo Awoniyi). Sounds like he’s off, anyway.
Our cult hero is … Fans of other clubs love to take a swipe at our owner, and Reds supporters are frequently quick to jump to his defence. For all the controversies, I genuinely think Marinakis has been great for Forest and for English football: ruthlessly ambitious, aware that decision-making carries risk as well as reward, and unwilling to shrink in the face of so-called “big clubs” or the authorities. He has made some high-profile mistakes but does not shy away from making big calls (sorry Vítor!). And, of course, as Palace fans are aware (along with most of Greece), the Big Guy will also stand up for what he thinks is right and proper, and doesn’t care what other people think.
If we could sign two players from our past … Stan Collymore and Des Walker: pace, power, brilliance.
We will finish 12th. Top four 1. Chelsea; 2. Arsenal; 3. Liverpool; 4. Man United. Bottom three 18. Crystal Palace; 19. Coventry; 20. Hull. First manager sacked De Zerbi.
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Rich Ferraro, 1865: The Nottingham Forest Podcast
Sunderland
I’m optimistic – but definitely cautiously optimistic. Last season completely exceeded our expectations and finishing seventh with Europa League football on the horizon was incredible. However, Europe changes things. The biggest challenge will be managing the extra games without losing the spark that made us so enjoyable to watch. I’d be very happy with a comfortable mid-table finish and a decent European run. Consolidating ourselves in the league has to be the priority.
Key players/weak links Xhaka is still absolutely pivotal – he brings so much leadership and control – while Le Fée is probably the player I most enjoy watching. I’m also really excited to see what Talbi does this year. He was managed really well last season without too much pressure being put on him, but this feels like his season to really kick on. I don’t think there’s an obvious individual weak link; the concern is whether we have enough depth to compete on multiple fronts.
We still need to sign … I’d still like another attacking option, ideally someone who can play on the right and offer genuine end product. Geny Catamo is an interesting link, but I know the club won’t move unless the figures line up. More than anything, I want quality depth. We could play a ridiculous number of games this season, so we need options rather than simply another big name.
Our cult hero is … Wilson Isidor without question. His “football is life, Sunderland is life” clip probably summed it up perfectly. He gets the club and we genuinely love him. Add in the personality, the goals and his ability to do something brilliant or completely chaotic, and he feels destined to go viral several times this season.
If we could sign two players from our past … Kevin Phillips is the obvious first choice. Put peak Phillips alongside Brobbey and you’ve got a ruthless finisher playing off someone who can hold the ball up and occupy defenders. My second would be Amad. He’d give us quality, creativity and unpredictability out wide, and after how loved he was during his loan spell, bringing him back would feel like a proper homecoming. Put Amad on the wing with Phillips and Brobbey through the middle and I’d be getting dangerously carried away very quickly.
We will finish 12th. Top four: 1. Arsenal; 2. Manchester City; 3. Liverpool; 4. Manchester United. Bottom three: 18. Fulham; 19. Coventry; 20. Hull. First manager sacked Sergej Jakirovic.
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Eleanor McCabe @eleanor_amc for @WiseMenSayPod, wisemensay.co.uk
Tottenham
Nothing screams more “Tottenham Hotspur” than stating we’re going to have an outstanding season having finished 17th twice in succession and narrowly avoided relegation. We probably should have gone down. Somehow West Ham managed to be a little bit more rubbish than a team that could barely win home games. Roberto De Zerbi and Enic’s personality change (spending money on end products) is why I’m flirting with the idea of a top-five finish. Absolute greed on my part, but it’s fun to believe. Top eight would be grand.
Key players/weak links Still work to do, but the backline has been rebooted and Micky van de Ven has signed a new contract. In midfield, with Tonali and Fernandes (two of the best mids available to sign) and with Kudus and Deki to return, we finally have depth and quality and strength. The aim will be to galvanise and rejuvenate our home form and regain that confidence and swagger. The key is De Zerbi. His appointment has changed everything. As for youngsters, Luca Williams-Barnett has all the potential to be something special.
We still need to sign … We’ll need plenty done over the next few windows, but ideally, we could do with a winger (we’ve been chasing Savinho for what feels forever) plus a No 10 and a forward. Maddison getting injured again is a concern. We need more than just Solanke up top, with Richy likely to leave.
Our cult hero is … Djed Spence for his World Cup heroics – but we are selling him to Inter. So it has to be the Spurs social media team, the togetherness vibe is the feelgood cleansing we need.
If we could sign two players from our past … It’s a cheat code, but let’s add Harry Kane to the frontline and Gareth Bale to the wing (or any position he wants).
We will finish 17th/1st. Top four: 1. Tottenham; 2. Manchester City; 3. Liverpool; 4. Manchester United. Bottom three: 18. Nottingham Forest; 19. Newcastle; 20. Aston Villa. First manager sacked Mikel Arteta.
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Spooky The Fighting Cock podcast; @DearMrLevy; Filthy Shambles podcast on Spotify
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