Predictions : who will Champions, get top four and more

With the 2023/24 football season already underway, excitement is building across Europe’s top leagues (Predictions : who will be Champions). Fans and pundits are eager to predict who will emerge as champions, who will secure coveted top-four spots, and which teams might face disappointment.

Below, we dive into potential scenarios across the Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, and other major European leagues.

1. Premier League

The English Premier League remains one of the most competitive leagues in the world, with several top clubs competing for glory. Predicting champions and top-four finishers is always a challenge, but let’s break down the major contenders:

1.1 Champions: Manchester City

Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City enters the 2023/24 season as the clear favorites. Having won the title for three consecutive seasons, including a historic treble (Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League) in 2022/23, City seems well-positioned to defend their crown.

Key reasons why Manchester City are favorites:

Strength in Depth: City’s squad depth is second to none. With Erling Haaland, Kevin De Bruyne, and Rodri in top form, they boast world-class players in almost every position. Their bench is filled with players who could start for many top European sides even with potential injuries.
Guardiola’s Tactical Brilliance: Pep Guardiola’s tactical flexibility and attention to detail have kept City one step ahead of their rivals. Whether playing with a false nine or focusing on defensive solidity, Guardiola knows how to adapt his system to win.
Dominance in the League: City’s ability to string together long winning streaks, particularly in the second half of the season, makes them an almost unstoppable force. Even if they face challenges early in the season, they have shown they can overcome them and surge ahead.

1.2 Top Four Predictions:

While Manchester City is expected to win the league, the battle for the remaining top-four spots is wide open, with several teams vying for Champions League qualification.

Arsenal: After coming close to winning the Premier League in 2022/23, Arsenal looks set to challenge again. Under Mikel Arteta, the Gunners have developed a young, dynamic squad, with players like Bukayo Saka, Martin Ødegaard, and Gabriel Jesus playing key roles. Their summer signings, including Declan Rice, have bolstered their midfield and added depth.

Liverpool: After a difficult season in 2022/23, Liverpool will be aiming to return to the top. With Jurgen Klopp at the helm, the Reds have the firepower to compete with anyone, especially with the attacking trio of Mohamed Salah, Darwin Núñez, and Cody Gakpo. The midfield rebuild, featuring Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai, should also bring more stability to their game.
Manchester United: Erik ten Hag’s side is improving steadily, and United will be eager to secure a top-four spot again after finishing third last season. Marcus Rashford, Bruno Fernandes, and new signing Mason Mount will lead the attack, while defensive additions like André Onana and Rasmus Højlund will shore up their backline.
Chelsea: After a disappointing 2022/23 season, Chelsea looks to rebuild under Mauricio Pochettino. The Blues have invested heavily in young talent, and while the team might take time to gel, they have the potential to challenge for a top-four spot if things click. The additions of Christopher Nkunku, Moisés Caicedo, and Roméo Lavia bring added quality to their squad.

1.3 Potential Surprise Package: Aston Villa

Aston Villa has made significant progress under Unai Emery, and they could be the dark horses this season. With players like Ollie Watkins and summer signing Moussa Diaby, they have the attacking prowess to challenge for a European spot, potentially even breaking into the top six.

2. La Liga

In Spain, La Liga has historically been dominated by Barcelona and Real Madrid. However, the 2023/24 season could see a shift in dynamics as both clubs face challenges and emerging teams seek to stake their claim.

2.1 Champions: Barcelona

Barcelona won La Liga in 2022/23, and they will be favorites again this season. Xavi has built a young, exciting team that blends defensive solidity with attacking flair. Despite financial difficulties, Barcelona has managed to strengthen their squad.

Key reasons for Barcelona’s dominance:

Defensive Improvement: Last season, Barcelona had the best defense in Europe’s top five leagues, conceding just 20 goals. With players like Ronald Araújo and Jules Koundé leading the backline, they are tough to break down.
Pedri and Gavi: These two young midfielders have become crucial for Barcelona, dictating play and linking the defense with the attack. Their energy, creativity, and pressing ability are integral to Xavi’s system.
Lewandowski’s Goals: Robert Lewandowski remains a goal-scoring machine (Predictions : who will Champions). His ability to finish chances and lead the line will be critical for Barcelona’s title defense.

2.2 Top Four Predictions:

Real Madrid: Los Blancos will always be Barcelona’s biggest challengers. Despite losing Karim Benzema, Madrid has strengthened with the signing of Jude Bellingham, who will add creativity and goals from midfield. Vinícius Júnior will also continue to play a pivotal role in their attack.

Atletico Madrid: Diego Simeone’s side is always in the mix for top-four spots, and this season should be no different. Atletico’s defensive resilience and the attacking duo of Antoine Griezmann and Memphis Depay will make them a force to be reckoned with.

Real Sociedad: Real Sociedad has steadily improved over the years (Predictions : who will Champions), and they will be aiming for another top-four finish. Their mix of experienced players like David Silva and young talents like Takefusa Kubo makes them a strong contender.

Villarreal: Under new management, Villarreal will aim for Champions League football. With Gerard Moreno and Dani Parejo leading the team, Villarreal has the quality to compete for a top-four spot.

2.3 Potential Surprise Package: Girona

Girona has been quietly building a solid squad, and they could surprise many this season ( Predictions : who will Champions ). With a strong emphasis on possession-based football and clever recruitment, Girona could potentially finish in a European spot.