Manchester City is set to face a tough challenge from Arsenal as they aim to secure an unprecedented fifth consecutive Premier League title. Meanwhile, Liverpool enters a new era with Arne Slot taking over from Jurgen Klopp, and Erik ten Hag is under pressure to deliver results at Manchester United after narrowly avoiding dismissal. Here are five key storylines to watch as the new season kicks off on Friday:
Slot’s Challenge in Klopp’s Shadow
Liverpool missed the chance to give Jurgen Klopp a triumphant farewell last season, finishing third after faltering in the final stretch. Arne Slot now faces the daunting task of succeeding Klopp, who elevated the Reds to the pinnacle of English and European football while endearing himself to the Anfield faithful. Slot may struggle to match Klopp’s charisma, but early indications suggest he could maintain Liverpool’s success on the pitch. The Reds have had an impressive pre-season, defeating Arsenal, Manchester United, and Sevilla, but they have yet to make any signings in the transfer window. Martin Zubimendi of Real Sociedad has been rumored as a potential midfield anchor. Slot has noted the similarities between his and Klopp’s playing styles as a key reason he was recruited from Feyenoord. He’ll be hoping for a strong start to the season, especially with a favorable run of fixtures early on.
Arsenal’s Moment?
Arsenal collected 89 points last season, their second-highest tally ever in the Premier League, yet it still wasn’t enough to dethrone Manchester City. Fueled by that near-miss, Mikel Arteta’s team is emerging as a formidable force in English football. The Gunners have steadily improved over the past three seasons, finishing second in the last two campaigns. The addition of Italian international Riccardo Calafiori strengthens what was already the best defense in the league last season. However, Arsenal may still find themselves lacking in attack. Kai Havertz had a strong second half of his first season at the club after a slow start and is expected to continue as Arteta’s center-forward, as Arsenal once again opted not to sign a new striker.
Ten Hag’s Tightrope
Manchester United’s surprising FA Cup final victory over Manchester City in May was enough to save Erik ten Hag’s job and even earned him a new contract. However, the former Ajax manager is still on thin ice after United’s worst-ever Premier League finish, placing eighth. United has been one of the most active English clubs in the transfer market, acquiring Leny Yoro and Joshua Zirkzee, along with completing deals for Bayern Munich defenders Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui. But a familiar problem has arisen for Ten Hag, as Yoro has already been sidelined for three months due to a foot injury. United starts the season at home against Fulham on Friday, and Ten Hag cannot afford a poor start, as his future could quickly come into question once again.
Ipswich’s Return to the Top Flight
While Leicester and Southampton have quickly bounced back into the Premier League, Ipswich Town returns to the top flight for the first time in 22 years. Manager Kieran McKenna has led the Tractor Boys to back-to-back promotions, and retaining the Northern Irishman amid interest from Chelsea and Brighton has been crucial to Ipswich’s hopes of survival. The challenge they face is significant, as all three promoted teams last season were relegated.
Maresca’s Tough Decisions
New Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca faces a challenging start to his tenure, with a debut match against Manchester City. However, the Italian isn’t short on selection options. Continuing the trend of big spending since the takeover led by LA Dodgers co-owner Todd Boehly, Chelsea has splashed out on young talent from around the world this summer. This includes the £54 million signing of Pedro Neto from Wolves and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, who excelled under Maresca at Leicester last season during their promotion campaign. However, Chelsea’s summer acquisitions have swollen the squad to over 50 senior players, leaving Maresca with the difficult task of implementing his playing style while managing a dressing room filled with players who may be unhappy with limited playing time.
