As the Premier League 2024/25 season rapidly approaches, anticipation is building for what promises to be an enthralling campaign. This article delves into predictions for the upcoming season, examining potential outcomes at both ends of the table. We’ll analyse who has the best chances of clinching the title, prospects in the top four, and assess who might be facing relegation.
Furthermore, we’ll explore which player can make it in the race for the Premier League’s top scorer. This comprehensive preview provides insights that could be pivotal for those looking to make informed betting decisions. Also, click here for the 2024/25 Predictions Hub where you will find more outright betting tips on the upcoming football season covering all the major European Leagues.
2024/25 Premier League Season Outright Predictions Hub & Betting Tips
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Can Arsenal Finally End Their Title Drought? A Season of High Stakes Awaits
Key Stats
Arsenal closed the gap to Manchester City to just two points last season, underlining their growing title credentials.
Tottenham’s acquisition of Dominic Solanke could provide the firepower needed to secure a top-four finish.
Alexander Isak’s 0.81 expected goals per 90 minutes last season was second only to Erling Haaland, highlighting his potential as a top scorer.
Premier League Title Race
Arsenal’s Title Challenge
Arsenal came agonisingly close to ending their two-decade wait for a Premier League title last season. The Gunners finished just two points behind Manchester City, underscoring their ability to sustain a title challenge throughout the campaign. This marked a significant improvement from the previous season when they ended five points adrift, highlighting the strides made under the stewardship of Mikel Arteta. Their progress wasn’t merely numerical; it was emblematic of a team that has grown in maturity, resilience, and tactical understanding.
The 2023/24 season saw Arsenal exhibit a level of consistency that had been missing in prior years. They managed to keep pace with Manchester City, a team that has set the benchmark for excellence in the Premier League. The fact that Arsenal were able to close the gap to just two points is indicative of their evolution into genuine title contenders. The team’s ability to perform under pressure, particularly in the latter stages of the season, was a testament to the mental fortitude instilled by Arteta. Unlike in previous seasons, where Arsenal’s title bids have faltered in the face of adversity, this time, they maintained their composure, securing crucial victories that kept them in the hunt until the very end.
A deep dive into the statistics from last season further highlights Arsenal’s strength. They finished with an expected points (xP) difference of just 1.11 behind Manchester City, illustrating how closely matched the two sides were in terms of performance. This marginal difference in xP underscores the fine lines that separated the two teams throughout the season. Arsenal’s defensive prowess was a cornerstone of their campaign, as they boasted the best defensive record in the league. Conceding fewer goals than any other side not only reflects the solidity of their backline but also points to a well-organised and disciplined unit capable of withstanding the rigours of a Premier League season.
One of the most compelling factors in Arsenal’s favour is the youthful exuberance of their squad. This isn’t merely about age; it’s about the energy, hunger, and potential for growth that youth brings. With the exception of Leandro Trossard, who at 29 years old brings valuable experience, the core of Arsenal’s team is under 27. This contrasts sharply with Manchester City, where key players like Kevin De Bruyne, Kyle Walker, and John Stones are already in their 30s. In a league as physically demanding as the Premier League, the relative youth of Arsenal’s squad could be a decisive factor, particularly as the season wears on and fatigue sets in. Younger players generally recover quicker and can sustain high-intensity performances over a longer period, giving Arsenal a potential edge.
Furthermore, the youthfulness of Arsenal’s squad is not just about physicality; it’s about a group of players who are still developing and improving. The likes of Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Martin Ødegaard have already shown immense promise, but their best years are arguably still ahead of them. This continuous development is a key advantage for Arsenal, as these players are likely to grow in stature and influence with each passing season. The fact that Arteta has such a young squad at his disposal means that Arsenal are not only well-placed to challenge this season but could also be setting the foundation for sustained success in the coming years.
In addition to their youthful core, Arsenal have made astute moves in the transfer market to strengthen their squad. The acquisition of Riccardo Calafiori, a talented and versatile full-back, is a notable upgrade to their defensive options. Calafiori’s ability to play on either flank provides Arteta with greater tactical flexibility and depth, crucial in a long and gruelling season. His presence adds a new dimension to Arsenal’s defence, which was already the best in the league last season. The depth he brings will also be vital in managing the squad through congested fixtures, particularly with the added demands of European competition.
While Arsenal have been proactive in strengthening their squad, Manchester City have been relatively quiet in the transfer market. This lack of significant reinforcement could leave City vulnerable, especially as they continue to rely heavily on a few key players. Kevin De Bruyne, despite being one of the best players in the world, has struggled with injuries in recent seasons. His fitness will be a concern for City, as they depend on his creativity and leadership. Similarly, Erling Haaland, who was responsible for 28% of City’s goals last season, will carry a heavy burden. Should either of these players face a prolonged absence, City’s title defence could be in jeopardy.
Given these factors, Arsenal’s position as a serious title contender is not just a possibility; it’s a probability. The combination of a young, dynamic squad, strategic signings, and a manager who has instilled a winning mentality makes Arsenal a formidable force. Arteta’s emphasis on developing a cohesive unit that is both defensively sound and offensively potent has paid dividends, and there is every reason to believe that Arsenal can go one step further this season. With Manchester City facing potential challenges due to an ageing squad and injury concerns, the stage could be set for Arsenal to finally break their title drought and lift the Premier League trophy for the first time since 2004.
Premier League: The Race for the Top Four
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As the race for the coveted top four spots in the Premier League intensifies, Tottenham Hotspur has emerged as a formidable contender, particularly following the strategic acquisition of Dominic Solanke. Spurs have experienced a rollercoaster of form in recent years, with flashes of brilliance often offset by periods of inconsistency. However, with Harry Kane having departed for Bayern Munich last summer, Solanke’s arrival could be the catalyst that Spurs need to secure a return to the Champions League, a competition that has eluded them since their memorable run to the final in 2019.
Harry Kane’s departure to Bayern Munich marked a significant turning point for Tottenham. His move, which took place ahead of the 2023/24 season, left a considerable void in Spurs’ attack. Kane had been the club’s talisman for nearly a decade, consistently topping the goal-scoring charts and leading the team through numerous campaigns. His exit required Tottenham to rethink their approach in the final third, and it was clear that replacing his influence on the pitch would be no easy task.
In the aftermath of Kane’s departure, Tottenham turned to Dominic Solanke as a key signing to bolster their forward line. Solanke’s arrival at Spurs has been viewed as a crucial step in filling the gap left by Kane. While it is unrealistic to expect Solanke to immediately match Kane’s prolific scoring record, his presence brings a new dimension to Tottenham’s attack. Solanke’s versatility, physicality, and goal-scoring ability provide Spurs with a fresh option in the striker role, one that can lead the line while also facilitating play for his teammates.
Solanke’s performances at Bournemouth in the 2023/24 season demonstrated his potential. Despite playing for a team often embroiled in relegation battles, Solanke consistently found the back of the net, showing his ability to perform under pressure. His experience in leading a less dominant team has equipped him with the resilience and determination needed to succeed at a club with Tottenham’s ambitions. These attributes are particularly valuable in the wake of Kane’s departure, as Spurs look to develop a more collective approach to scoring goals.
Moreover, Solanke’s style of play is well-suited to Tottenham’s current squad dynamics. His ability to hold up the ball, bring others into play, and finish clinically will complement the attacking talents of Son Heung-min and Dejan Kulusevski, both of whom have taken on more central roles since Kane’s exit. Solanke’s presence allows Tottenham to adopt a more fluid and dynamic approach in the final third, making them less predictable and harder to defend against. This could prove crucial in breaking down the well-organised defences that have previously thwarted Spurs’ progress.
Tottenham’s rivals for a top-four finish, notably Manchester United and Liverpool, are not without their own issues, which could play to Spurs’ advantage. Manchester United, despite bolstering their squad with key signings such as Joshua Zirkzee and Leny Yoro, have been plagued by injury problems that have hampered their ability to maintain consistency. Last season, United’s form was erratic, and the absence of key players at crucial moments often saw them drop vital points. With Yoro already sidelined and the season barely begun, these injury woes could once again undermine their campaign, making it difficult for them to secure a top-four finish.
Liverpool, on the other hand, are in the midst of a transitional phase following the departure of their long-serving manager Jurgen Klopp. Klopp’s departure marked the end of an era at Anfield, and while Liverpool have brought in Arne Slot as his replacement, the transition is unlikely to be seamless. Slot faces the daunting task of filling the void left by Klopp, whose tactical acumen and motivational skills were key to Liverpool’s success over the past few years. Additionally, the uncertainty surrounding Mohamed Salah’s future at the club adds another layer of complexity to Liverpool’s top-four bid. If Salah were to leave, Liverpool would lose not only their most potent goal-scoring threat but also a player whose influence extends far beyond the pitch.
Chelsea also finds themselves in a precarious position. Under the stewardship of Enzo Maresca, a manager with limited experience at the top level, Chelsea’s prospects for a top-four finish are uncertain. The club has undergone significant changes in recent seasons, with a bloated squad and a revolving door of managers contributing to their inconsistency. Last season, Chelsea finished a staggering 29 points behind the top two, a gap that underscores the magnitude of the task facing Maresca. While Chelsea have invested heavily in their squad, the lack of a settled first eleven and a clear tactical identity could prove to be their undoing.
Newcastle United, another potential top-four rival, had a commendable campaign last season but were ultimately hampered by the demands of European football. Balancing domestic and European commitments is a challenge for any team, and Newcastle struggled to maintain their early-season momentum as the fixture list piled up. The uncertainty surrounding the future of manager Eddie Howe further complicates Newcastle’s situation. Howe has been instrumental in Newcastle’s resurgence, but doubts about his long-term future at the club could create instability, making it difficult for the Magpies to replicate their previous success.
Tottenham, by contrast, enter the season with a more settled squad and a clear sense of direction under their current management. The addition of Solanke is expected to alleviate the goal-scoring burden left by Kane’s departure, allowing Spurs to adopt a more collective approach to scoring. Solanke’s presence enables Tottenham to reconfigure their attack, focusing on a more fluid style that could prove more challenging for opponents to counter.
Moreover, Tottenham’s squad stability could prove decisive in a season where many of their rivals are grappling with significant changes. The likes of Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea, and Newcastle all face challenges that could disrupt their campaigns, whether it’s injuries, managerial changes, or the demands of European competition. In contrast, Tottenham’s relatively settled squad, bolstered by the arrival of Solanke, gives them a solid foundation on which to build a successful top-four bid.
Premier League Relegation Battle
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The relegation battle in the Premier League is shaping up to be as fiercely contested as ever, with several teams likely to be drawn into the fight for survival. However, Southampton stands out as the main candidate for relegation when compared with other potential strugglers, and a closer examination of their situation reveals why they may be the most vulnerable.
Southampton’s Recent Struggles
Southampton’s 2022/23 Premier League campaign was nothing short of disastrous. Finishing at the very bottom of the table with just 25 points, they managed a meagre six wins out of 38 matches. The team struggled both offensively and defensively, scoring only 36 goals while conceding 73—a goal difference of -37, the worst in the league. Their inability to compete effectively against other teams, both home and away, underscored the deep-rooted issues within the squad. This poor performance led to their relegation to the Championship, where they faced a slightly less competitive environment but still exhibited significant weaknesses.
In the 2023/24 Championship season, while Southampton did manage to finish fourth with 87 points and secured a spot in the promotion play-offs, their underlying issues remained evident. They conceded 63 goals, the most among the top four teams, which points to a defence that remains leaky and susceptible to pressure. Although they were more prolific in attack, scoring 87 goals, their defensive lapses continued to undo much of their good work upfront. This defensive fragility is particularly concerning as they step back into the Premier League, where they will face much stronger opposition.
Lack of Squad Reinforcements
One of the most critical factors contributing to Southampton’s relegation candidacy is their failure to significantly strengthen the squad over the summer. While other teams in the relegation mix have been active in the transfer market, bringing in new talent to address key weaknesses, Southampton’s transfer activity has been underwhelming. This is particularly troubling given the squad’s evident deficiencies in defence and midfield.
The Premier League is an unforgiving environment, and depth is crucial for any team hoping to survive. Southampton’s lack of depth was a major issue during their last stint in the top flight, and without adequate reinforcements, they are likely to face similar problems. Injuries, suspensions, and loss of form are inevitable over the course of a long season, and without quality players to step in, Southampton could struggle to maintain consistent performances.
Comparison with Other Relegation Candidates
When compared to other potential relegation candidates, Southampton’s situation appears more precarious. Let’s take a closer look at their rivals in the battle to avoid the drop:
- Leicester City: Despite being newly promoted, Leicester City is a team with a solid foundation. Although they lost key figures like manager Enzo Maresca and star player Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, they have a squad that is accustomed to competing at a high level, having recently won the Championship. Leicester’s experience in the Premier League and their ability to attract new talent to replace outgoing players gives them a fighting chance of survival. Moreover, Leicester’s defensive record in the Championship was far superior to Southampton’s, suggesting they may be better equipped to handle Premier League attacks.
- Ipswich Town: Ipswich, who finished second in the Championship, have also been tipped to struggle in the Premier League. However, they enter the top flight with a cohesive squad and momentum from their successful promotion campaign. While their squad may lack Premier League experience, Ipswich’s defensive record in the Championship (conceding 57 goals) was better than Southampton’s. Additionally, they have made some strategic signings aimed at bolstering their squad for the challenges ahead, which could give them a slight edge in the survival race.
- Nottingham Forest: Nottingham Forest, who narrowly avoided relegation in the last two seasons, have their own challenges, but they possess a squad that has already been battle-hardened by the rigours of Premier League football. Under Nuno Espirito Santo, Forest struggled with inconsistency but managed to pick up crucial points when it mattered. They have also been active in the transfer market, aiming to address their weaknesses, particularly in defence. This proactive approach could make the difference in another tight relegation battle.
Premier League Top Goalscorer
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The race for the Premier League’s top goalscorer is often dominated by familiar names, but Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak stands out as a formidable contender this season. Isak’s performances last season were nothing short of sensational, as he notched up 21 goals despite Newcastle United grappling with injury setbacks and the challenges posed by competing on multiple fronts, including their domestic campaign and European commitments.
Isak’s goal-scoring prowess is underpinned by some compelling statistics. His expected goals (xG) per 90 minutes, which stood at an impressive 0.81, was second only to the prolific Erling Haaland. This metric is particularly significant as it reflects Isak’s consistent ability to position himself in high-quality scoring situations. A high xG per 90 indicates that a player is not only getting into good positions but is also expected to score based on the quality of the chances he is receiving. For Isak to be so close to Haaland in this statistic speaks volumes about his instincts and positioning in the box.
Isak’s overall performance metrics from last season further highlight why he is a strong candidate for the Golden Boot. Playing 30 matches and starting 27 of them, Isak averaged 76 minutes per game, a testament to his reliability and importance to Newcastle’s attacking setup. Despite the physical demands of the season, Isak maintained a scoring frequency of one goal every 108 minutes, translating to 0.7 goals per game. This consistency is critical in the race for the top scorer, as it suggests that Isak is not just a flash in the pan but a sustained threat over the course of the season.
What’s particularly striking about Isak’s goal-scoring record is the variety and precision of his finishing. Out of his 21 goals, 20 were scored from inside the box, showcasing his predatory instincts and sharpness in front of goal. His ability to find space in crowded penalty areas and convert from close range is a hallmark of a top striker. Furthermore, Isak’s 27% goal conversion rate is noteworthy, indicating that he is making the most of the chances that come his way. While he missed 21 big chances over the season, which could be seen as a point of improvement, the sheer volume of opportunities he gets suggests that he will continue to be a major threat.
Another aspect that could tilt the scales in Isak’s favour this season is the fact that Newcastle will not be participating in European competitions. This reduction in workload could be pivotal. Without the additional strain of midweek fixtures across Europe, Isak will have the opportunity to focus entirely on the Premier League. This means more recovery time between games, reduced risk of injury, and a fresher, more focused approach to each match. For a player who thrives on rhythm and consistency, this could lead to an even more prolific season in front of goal.
Isak’s role within Newcastle’s attacking framework also positions him as a key contender for the Golden Boot. Under the guidance of Eddie Howe, Newcastle have developed a strong attacking setup that plays to Isak’s strengths. The team’s ability to create chances, coupled with Isak’s sharpness in the box, creates a perfect storm for a high goal tally. Isak’s contribution isn’t just about scoring; he also plays a crucial role in the buildup, with an average of 0.9 key passes per game and 2.77 expected assists (xA) over the season. This dual threat makes him a nightmare for defenders, as they have to account for both his finishing and his ability to create opportunities for teammates.
Despite his impressive goal-scoring record, Isak is not just a poacher; his game is built on more than just finishing. He is involved in the play with an average of 26.8 touches per game, and his passing accuracy of 80% demonstrates his ability to link up effectively with teammates. Isak’s movement and ability to create space are integral to Newcastle’s attacking play, making him not only a goal threat but also a player who enhances the performances of those around him.
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