Former Watford captain, Troy Deeney, has tipped Arsenal to successfully defend the Premier League title this season and has shared his predictions for the top four.
After achieving three consecutive second-place finishes, Mikel Arteta successfully led Arsenal to their first league championship in 22 years last season.
With the World Cup concluded and pre-season activities resuming, the Gunners are now focused on defending their title this year.
The north London club has had a subdued start in the transfer market, having only signed Christos Tzolis and Illan Meslier, in addition to confirming Piero Hincapie’s permanent transfer from Bayer Leverkusen following a successful loan spell last season.
Arsenal remains eager to strengthen their squad in central midfield, left wing, and forward positions, while a back injury to William Saliba may necessitate consideration for defensive reinforcements.
Nevertheless, former Premier League striker Deeney is of the opinion that Arteta possesses the deepest squad in the league and believes Arsenal should be regarded as favorites to win the title once more this season.
‘”They should win the Premier League,” he told talkSPORT. “They still have the best squad; they haven’t lost anyone significant yet, aside from Trossard, but they have replaced him with a younger version from Club Brugge as well.
“They maintain the best squad and the most extensive squad rotation available. Therefore, I believe Arsenal should still be the favorites, although I think there is now more pressure on them compared to last year.
“I consider them the clear favorites now; everyone anticipates their victory. This implies that there is heightened expectation regarding their style of play and their ability to dominate against lesser teams.
“However, I believe they will emerge victorious, leaving it to everyone else to attempt to catch up with them.”
Enzo Maresca has returned to Manchester City, taking on the formidable challenge of succeeding Pep Guardiola at the Etihad Stadium.
In addition, Liverpool have appointed Andoni Iraola to replace Arne Slot, aiming to infuse new energy into the Merseyside club after he successfully led Bournemouth to European competition for the first time last season.
Meanwhile, in London, Xabi Alonso has joined Chelsea following a disappointing season for the Blues, which resulted in their failure to qualify for European football.
Michael Carrick, who stepped in as interim manager midway through last season, is now gearing up for his first full season at the helm of Manchester United.
However, Deeney expresses concern that the increased demands of Champions League football may hinder the Red Devils’ performance in the league this season.
He stated, “I currently do not believe they will secure a Champions League spot. The reason being, we are uncertain about Carrick’s capabilities when faced with three matches in a week at this level. While we observed some of his work in the Championship, it does not compare to this level.
“Now, with the need to navigate the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cups, and Carabao Cups, it is crucial not to exit as early as they have in previous years.”
Deeney’s predicted top-four for this season
Arsenal
Manchester City
Liverpool
Chelsea