Premier League legend Michael Owen reckons Liverpool will miss out on a title crown this season, backing Manchester City to win the league for the third time in a row. (via
The Mirror)
City will miss the presence around the dressing room of skipper Vincent Kompany this season, but they remain the team to beat although they picked up a meagre 98 points last season compared to their century in the previous campaign! Kevin de Bruyne missed long periods through injury last season and his return to full fitness allied to the acquisition of club record signing, Spanish holding midfielder, Rodri makes the City midfield better than ever. It is a big season for John Stones who has the opportunity to cement his place at the heart of the defence alongside Aymeric Laporte. That said I wouldn’t rule out Guardiola making a move between now and the end of the window for another central defender.
Champions League winners Liverpool look set to again be the main challengers to City as they continue their search for a, hitherto, elusive PL title. The Reds played their part in a magnificent title race last season and they are sure to have their supporters as they bid to go one better, but I just favour City in what looks a virtual match between these two great sides.
Another side who have broken their transfer window this season with 22-year-old midfielder Tanguy Ndombele arriving in north London for £54m from Lyon. Victor Wanyama and Eric Dier struggled for form and fitness last season and the young Frenchman will bring pace and power to Mauricio Pochettino’s engine room. At the time of writing it does look as if both Toby Alderweireld and Christian Eriksen will stay at the club this season although both players are out of contract next summer.
Despite their current transfer embargo Chelsea can finish the campaign in the final Champions League spot under new boss Frank Lampard. The Blues do have new £64m signing American international Christian Pulisic in their squad but begin life without Eden Hazard. Lampard looks likely to give his young guns Tammy Abraham and Mason Mount the opportunity to show they are ready for the fight ahead and it will be interesting to see the Blues starting XI for their opening game at Old Trafford.
