The Easy Path to Glory: Ranking Premier League Title Contenders’ Fixture Run-Ins
The highly anticipated 2024/25 Premier League season is just around the corner, as teams prepare to embark on another thrilling campaign. While football fans are currently captivated by the Euro 2024 tournament, the focus will soon shift back to domestic battles packed with excitement and twists. As the fixtures for the upcoming season have been confirmed, attention turns to the teams most likely to be in the title race, particularly regarding their run-in as they vie for the crown.
Title Contenders in Focus
It’s no surprise that Manchester City, Arsenal, and Liverpool are poised to be the favorites once again. Manchester United and Chelsea, with a grand total of 18 Premier League titles between them, will also be hoping to make their presence felt in the title race. With the season kicking off on August 17, anticipation surrounds who will face the easiest path to glory. Let’s dive into the fixture run-ins of the key contenders!
Will title rivals face an uphill battle?
5. Liverpool
Starting with Liverpool, fans will experience a new era as they welcome Arne Slot as their head coach for the first time after Jurgen Klopp’s long tenure. Adjusting to this change will be crucial, especially since Liverpool looks to reclaim its standing in the title race after falling short last season. The Reds’ run-in is not for the faint-hearted, with tough fixtures against Chelsea, Arsenal, and a tricky trip to Brighton slated for May. To cap it off, a potential banana skin awaits them on the final day with a match against Crystal Palace.
4. Chelsea
In the Chelsea camp, Enzo Maresca is charged with steering the club through another challenging season. Competing near the top of the table is a staple for the Blues, who won five Premier League titles. However, their May fixtures do not offer much respite. Encounters against Liverpool, Newcastle, and Manchester United will test their mettle. Furthermore, they face Nottingham Forest away, a venue that will not be easy to navigate. The rollercoaster ride of a season is sure to unfold in true Chelsea fashion.
Can Chelsea survive turbulent times?
3. Manchester United
Despite the doubts surrounding their title ambitions, Manchester United can’t be entirely ruled out. Under the stewardship of Erik ten Hag, there is a glimmer of hope for the Red Devils to build on their previous season’s performance. However, a challenging start to May at Brentford followed by West Ham at Old Trafford and a crucial trip to Chelsea could test their resilience. Finishing at home against Aston Villa might offer an opportunity to end on a high note.
2. Arsenal
Frustration will likely brew among Arsenal supporters as they continue to witness Manchester City monopolizing the league titles. Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal has propelled itself into title contention over the last few years, and the fans are eager for a successful campaign. Their run-in includes promising fixtures against Bournemouth and a high-stakes match against Liverpool, followed by a challenging final match at Southampton, who may desperately fight for survival.
Will Arsenal finally claim the trophy?
1. Manchester City
Sitting atop the list, Manchester City boasts the most favorable fixture run-in of all the title contenders. The City’s remarkable run towards the end of previous seasons, combined with their seemingly soft final four matches against Wolves, Southampton, Bournemouth, and Fulham, puts them in an enviable position. Most teams will feel the pressure of trying to overcome Pep Guardiola’s side as they strive for another title victory. With Erling Haaland leading the charge, any challenger must build serious momentum to take them down.
As the excitement of the new season approaches, teams across the Premier League will be assessing their challenges with keen interest. The title race promises to bring suspense, passion, and a showcase of the best talent the league has to offer. One thing is for sure—the journey to becoming champions is never simple.
Who will lift the trophy come May?