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PITA’s 2023/24 Premier League predictions
Victor Salazar
Winner: Man City – At their best there is no better side in the world. Yes, the losses of İlkay Gündoğan and Riyad Mahrez certainly push them closer to the pack. However, they signed a top centre-back in Joško Gvardiol to strengthen an already formidable backline. They still have magicians like Bernardo Silva and Kevin De Bruyne, as well as a goal machine in Haaland. Phil Foden and Julian Alverez are only going to get better. My only question is whether there will be a treble hangover and having to play all those matches finally catch up to them. If that happens, Arsenal will challenge them much like last year. Can the Gunners catch them? That remains to be seen. Until then my money is on the Cityzens.
Top 4: Man City, Arsenal, Man Utd, Liverpool – City and Arsenal look like sure bets, while another year of Erik ten Hag will work wonders for the Red Devils, who have added a goalscorer and a competent ball-playing goalkeeper. The final spot was a toss-up between Liverpool and Newcastle, but I’m backing the former. I like what they’ve done with their midfield, and a fired-up Mo Salah will thrust them back into the Champions League.
Golden Boot: Erling Haaland – The Nordic machine may not score as many as last season but he still has uncanny options that will distribute him the ball in the box. I think this is an easy choice.
Relegated teams: Luton, Sheffield Utd, Wolves – The bookies say Luton, Sheffield United, and Nottingham Forest will go down. I agree with the two newly promoted clubs struggling, but I think they’ll be joined by Wolves. The change of manager to start the season does not bode well for a side that improved considerably under his tutelage last term.
Surprise package: Aston Villa – Villa will be near the top four and may challenge the big boys this season. Villa fits the mould of a perfect Emery side. The pressure isn’t as heavy as the big clubs and he can fly under the radar like he did at Sevilla and Villarreal and win a trophy or two.