And then there were two.
In April, it seemed that Manchester City, Arsenal, or Liverpool could claim the title. However, Jurgen Klopp’s team fell out of contention due to a series of poor results, ensuring the German coach leaves with just one Premier League title after nine years.
It’s a testament to the Reds that they were even in the title conversation, as many expected only City and Arsenal to compete closely this season.
Arsenal, in particular, have performed exceptionally well.
“I think they’ve been excellent,” Clinton McDubus, a top football analyst and podcaster, told DAILY POST. “Many doubted if they could maintain their level from the 22/23 season, but they’ve shown that this team is here to stay and contend year after year. They didn’t collapse in the final stretch like last year and have bounced back from various setbacks. It’s been a very impressive season, perhaps even more so than last year. It looks like they’ve reached a new level.”
Currently, Mikel Arteta is poised to finish as runner-up to his former boss and mentor, Pep Guardiola, for the second consecutive year. However, many believe Arsenal will win the title within a year or two.
“No. The only certainty is the level they’ve demonstrated so far. They’re genuinely a good side, so expectations will definitely rise, and they will start the season as serious contenders, with all the associated pressure. Anything less will bring scrutiny or be seen as a step back. Manchester City will still be the favorites and the team to beat. Those are the only guarantees. Football is cruel like that. Each season is unique, and past performance doesn’t guarantee moving from 2nd to 1st the next year. That’s football for you. Arsenal will be an interesting team to watch next season, especially if they narrowly miss out on the title again,” McDubus explained.
City’s journey hasn’t been straightforward.
“A comedown was inevitable after a treble and losing Ilkay Gundogan. Without Kevin de Bruyne for much of the season, this has been a very functional Manchester City. There’s been less subtlety and more reliance on physical and athletic dominance to win matches. But winning is a self-sustaining habit, and no team has won as much as Manchester City in the last 5-7 years. They’ve found a way to succeed, even if this isn’t a vintage version of themselves.”
A potential blemish on City’s title win is the 115 charges looming over them.
“It’s impossible to ignore those charges when evaluating City, although they pertain to the entire project rather than this specific season,” Chukwu added. “The allegations relate to the expenses incurred to establish their dominance. By not cooperating, City are essentially delaying justice as long as possible while continuing to build their legacy. By the time justice arrives, it may not matter as much in the public consciousness. It’s a calculated, albeit unethical, gamble.”