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As the Premier League readies itself for another exciting season, Michael Owen, renowned football pundit and brand ambassador for SunBet under Sun International, provides a detailed forecast on how the clubs might perform in the coming year.
"There's no denying the dominance of Manchester City," began Owen. "Having clinched five of the last six titles, I see them wearing the crown again. The acquisition of Mateo Kovacic to replace Ilkay Gundogan demonstrates their prowess in the transfer market. They're a team at the zenith of their potential with Pep Guardiola, the maestro, at the helm. I can't imagine another outcome but a Manchester City title win."
The race for the top four spots promises to be a thrilling one. Last season's runner-up, Arsenal, gets a special mention from Owen for their exceptional transfers. "With Declan Rice and Kai Havertz, among others, joining the ranks, Arsenal looks solid. Their last season's performance was not a fluke; I see them retaking the second spot."
Meanwhile, having finished twelfth last year, Chelsea is expected to surge to third position. "They had an oversized squad last year, which was more of a burden than an asset. The departure of players like Havertz and Kovacic surprised many, but with Mauricio Pochettino steering the ship, I believe they're on the upswing."
The fight for the final Champions League spot is intense. "Liverpool and Manchester United both have a strong claim," Owen commented. "Yet, I've edged towards Liverpool. Despite their tactical changes and potential voids in leadership, they still bring a unique energy to the table. On the other hand, Manchester United might still be a step away from truly challenging for the top honours."
Michael Owen continues to applaud Newcastle United for their spectacular journey so far. "With a stellar squad and a top-notch manager, they are carving something unique in the North East. Their challenge will be balancing domestic and European commitments."
Spurs, too, have a chance to reclaim their past glory. "Their recent managerial choices might not have hit the mark, but they've found the perfect fit in Angelos' Ange' Postecoglou. I'm eager to see the transformation he brings."
Owen admits that switching to the relegation battle is tough for the newly promoted teams. "The Premier League's intensity is unparalleled. Sheffield United and Luton might find it difficult. Burnley, however, under the promising Vincent Kompany, has a fighting chance to stay up, pushing Bournemouth down."
The cherry on top of Owen's predictions is the golden boot award, with Erling Haaland, who's adapted formidably at Manchester City, being his primary pick. "The transformation in Haaland's gameplay is admirable. From direct striker techniques at Dortmund to being versatile against tight defences at Manchester City, he's emerged as a complete striker. Paired with City's playstyle, I'm hard-pressed to see anyone surpass him in goals. If he remains at Spurs, Harry Kane could be the closest contender," Owen added.
Here's a recap of Owen's top 20 predictions for the Premier League's finishing positions for 2023-24:
1. Manchester City
2. Arsenal
3. Chelsea
4. Liverpool
5. Manchester United
6. Tottenham Hotspur
7. Newcastle United
8. Aston Villa
9. Brighton
10. Everton
11. West Ham United
12. Brentford
13. Fulham
14. Nottingham Forest
15. Wolverhampton Wanderers
16. Crystal Palace
17. Burnley
18. Bournemouth
19. Sheffield United
20. Luton Town
For detailed insights and more information on these predictions with odds, visit SunBet's official website https://play.sunbet.co.za/promo/michael-owen
