The new Premier League season is almost upon us, and the excitement is building. Manchester City enter the season as reigning champions, having secured an unprecedented fourth consecutive English title last year. With 10 top-flight league titles overall and six in the last seven seasons under Pep Guardiola, the Citizens are eyeing a record-extending fifth straight title. However, the cloud of 115 charges related to breaches of regulations and financial rules looms large. How this will affect their past successes and their performance this season remains to be seen.
Manchester United, the 20-time English champions, are eager to reclaim their place among the elite. After a disappointing eighth-place finish last season, Erik Ten Hag's future as manager was in doubt. However, an F-A Cup victory earned him a lifeline, and with new ownership at Old Trafford, the pressure is on for a top-four finish—or even a title challenge.
Arsenal, last season's runners-up, will be determined to go one step further this campaign. The Gunners narrowly missed out on their first league title in two decades, falling short by just two points on the final day. Under Mikel Arteta, the team has shown remarkable progress since 2019, and the Spaniard will be aiming to finally bring the coveted Premier League trophy to the Emirates.
Meanwhile, Liverpool embark on a new era following the departure of Jurgen Klopp. The charismatic German, who won every major trophy available, including Liverpool’s first league title in 30 years, leaves behind big shoes to fill. Dutchman Arne Slot steps in, fully aware of the immense pressure that comes with replacing a legendary manager.
Chelsea, too, have a new man taking charge in Enzo Maresca. The Italian is the third permanent manager at Stamford Bridge since Thomas Tuchel's departure in September 2022. With both Graham Potter and Mauricio Pochettino given little time to succeed, Maresca’s tenure will be under close scrutiny. Whether the 44-year-old will be granted the patience to mold his squad and deliver success is a question that will be answered as the season unfolds.