After a long period of international action over the past two months, including the Euros, Copa America, and the Olympics, the English Premier League (EPL) is back. FA Cup winners Manchester United will host Fulham on Friday at Old Trafford, Manchester, in the first match of the new season.
Teams will compete in a total of 380 matches over 282 days to determine which of the 20 clubs will claim the Premier League title. Manchester City has established itself as an unstoppable force, having reinforced this status by winning the Community Shield against Manchester United, proving they are in top form.
With Pep Guardiola’s tactics and a squad of top-performing players, City will be aiming to secure the title for a record fifth consecutive time. Over the past 10 years, City has won the title six times.
The big question
The biggest question for this season is whether any team can stop Manchester City. While there are several clubs in the Premier League capable of challenging for the title, City currently looks a formidable force. However, teams like Arsenal and Liverpool could still contend for the trophy.
Arsenal’s prospects
This could be Arsenal’s time. Last season, the Gunners showed that their trophy win was no fluke, securing four points from their home and away games against City. Under Mikel Arteta’s leadership, they have improved each season. With Martin Odegaard and a talented group of young players, Arsenal might finally end their 21-year trophy drought. However, their biggest challenge will be tackling Erling Haaland, who returns to club football after a two-month break. Stopping the Norwegian striker will be a big test.
Liverpool’s New Era
Liverpool fans may have concerns following Jurgen Klopp’s departure last season, but the new manager, Arne Slot has shown promise during pre-season. The team benefits from Mohamed Salah’s return, with Diego Jota and Luis Díaz joining him in attack. With some form and support from the Kopites, Liverpool could become a problematic force for the other teams once again.
Top Fresh Faces to Watch
Several new players have joined various clubs this season. From young talents to experienced stars ready to make an impact in English football.
- Matthijs de Ligt (Manchester United): At just 19, De Ligt led Ajax to the UCL semifinals. He could emerge as one of the top defenders in the league if he regains his confidence after his time at Bayern Munich. His reunion with Erik ten Hag at Manchester United could reignite the success he enjoyed at Ajax.
- Riccardo Calafiori (Arsenal): The young Italian impressed over the past year with Bologna and showcased his defensive prowess in Euro 2024. Arsenal has pursued this 22-year-old for some time. Calafiori could prove to be a brilliant signing and potentially help the Gunners win the coveted EPL trophy.
- Savinho (Manchester City): Following a standout season with La Liga side Girona, 20-year-old Savinho has joined Manchester City. He will be stepping into the shoes of his South American counterpart, Julian Alvarez, who moved to Atlético Madrid. The Brazilian winger is expected to make a significant impact under Pep Guardiola.
Top-4 predictions
While winning the title is the ultimate goal, securing a place in the top four is crucial for clubs. Manchester City, Arsenal, and Liverpool are strong candidates for finishing in the top four. Other clubs like Manchester United, Chelsea, Tottenham, and West Ham could also pose a serious challenge for those coveted spots.
Schedule for the First round of EPL 2024-25
| Date | Match | Kick-off Time (IST) |
|---|---|---|
| Friday, August 16 | Manchester United vs Fulham | 00:30 IST (Saturday) |
| Saturday, August 17 | Ipswich Town vs Liverpool | 17:00 IST |
| Saturday, August 17 | Arsenal vs Wolves | 19:30 IST |
| Saturday, August 17 | Everton vs Brighton | 19:30 IST |
| Saturday, August 17 | Newcastle vs Southampton | 19:30 IST |
| Saturday, August 17 | Nottingham Forest vs Bournemouth | 19:30 IST |
| Saturday, August 17 | West Ham vs Aston Villa | 22:00 IST |
| Sunday, August 18 | Brentford vs Crystal Palace | 18:30 IST |
| Sunday, August 18 | Chelsea vs Manchester City | 21:00 IST |
| Sunday, August 18 | Leicester City vs Tottenham | 23:30 IST |
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