As the new Premier League season kicks off, Robbie Savage has shared his predictions for how the league will unfold, from the champions to the relegated teams. His forecast is based on the current state of each club, with potential adjustments pending the closing of the transfer window and any unforeseen point deductions.
Here’s how Savage envisions the season shaping up:
Manchester City – 1st: Savage predicts Manchester City will secure their fifth consecutive title. Despite ongoing investigations into alleged financial discrepancies, Pep Guardiola’s squad remains the strongest and most formidable, making them the team to beat.
Arsenal – 2nd: Savage believes Arsenal will finish just short of the top spot. Although they have bolstered their defense with Riccardo Calafiori, they need a top-class striker to fully challenge City. Arsenal will need to be near-perfect and defeat City both home and away to clinch the title.
Manchester United – 3rd: With the team gradually coming together, including youthful talents like Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho, Savage expects Manchester United to build on their FA Cup win. Erik ten Hag’s ability to get the best out of Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho will be crucial.
Chelsea – 4th: New manager Enzo Maresca faces the challenge of integrating numerous new signings. Pedro Neto’s addition is promising, but he has struggled with injuries. Maresca must quickly find the right balance within his squad.
Liverpool – 5th: Savage is skeptical about Liverpool’s title chances this season due to a lack of transfer activity. Despite not expecting a disastrous season, he notes that the absence of significant signings could hinder their progress.
Tottenham – 6th: Tottenham’s priority is ending their long trophy drought. With Dominic Solanke added to the squad, if he replicates his Bournemouth form. Spurs could push for a top-four finish, although Savage doesn’t foresee them winning the title.
West Ham – 7th: Savage praises West Ham’s strong transfer window under new coach Julen Lopetegui. With notable additions like Max Kilman and Aaron Wan-Bissaka, West Ham should be in contention for European spots.
Aston Villa – 8th: Champions League football may stretch Unai Emery’s squad thin, making it challenging to replicate last season’s top-four finish. However, new signings like Amadou Onana and Ross Barkley should help offset the loss of Douglas Luiz.
Newcastle – 9th: Newcastle’s attacking duo of Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon can be formidable, and a potential deal for Marc Guehi could strengthen their defense. However, uncertainty around manager Eddie Howe’s future may impact their season.
Everton – 10th: The nostalgia of their final season at Goodison Park could drive Everton. Under Sean Dyche, who managed to keep the team afloat last season despite challenges, Savage expects them to finish in the top half.
Crystal Palace – 11th: Crystal Palace’s recruitment has been impressive, and with Michael Olise’s departure to Bayern Munich. New signings and young talent like Adam Wharton should help maintain their Premier League status.
Fulham – 12th: Despite concerns over Aleksandar Mitrovic’s departure, Fulham managed well last season. Marco Silva’s team should cope despite losing Joao Palhinha, and the newly expanded Riverside Stand at Craven Cottage will add to the atmosphere.
Brentford – 13th: Savage has confidence in Brentford’s management and their well-run club. If Ivan Toney stays, his goal-scoring ability will be crucial. If he leaves, Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa will need to step up.
Brighton – 14th: With Roberto de Zerbi’s departure, Brighton’s new manager Fabian Hurzeler faces a tough task. The return of Kaoru Mitoma is a boost, but Savage hopes Brighton remains as entertaining as before.
Nottingham Forest – 15th: After a tumultuous period of transfers, Nottingham Forest has had a quieter summer. Manager Nuno Espirito Santo must ensure the team remains competitive, though Savage expects them to avoid relegation.
Bournemouth – 16th: Losing Dominic Solanke is a significant blow, but Andoni Iraola’s management last season was commendable. Savage believes he will keep Bournemouth safe despite the setback.
Wolves – 17th: Wolves were unlucky with VAR decisions last season, and Savage worries about their squad depth after the departures of Max Kilman and Pedro Neto. It could be a challenging season at Molineux.
Leicester – 18th: Savage is concerned for Leicester’s survival in the Premier League. The gap between the Championship and the top flight has grown, and with Jamie Vardy aging, finding goals will be a major challenge.
Ipswich – 19th: Ipswich’s return to the Premier League after 22 years is a fairytale, but Savage doubts their ability to stay up due to a lack of firepower. Kieran McKenna’s team might struggle in the top flight.
Southampton – 20th: With a history of promoted teams facing relegation immediately, Southampton may follow this trend. Despite Russell Martin’s efforts, Savage fears the team may not have enough to avoid relegation.
These predictions reflect Savage’s current assessment, with the potential for change as the transfer window closes and the season unfolds.
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