Manchester United's Premier League Title Hope for the Season
The question of whether Manchester United will be the title favorites in the upcoming Premier League season is one of considerable doubt. The team is currently in a rebuilding phase, and despite some promising signings, it appears to lack a clear on-field leader. Manager changes have not helped matters, and the pressure continues to mount since Sir Alex’s retirement.
Rebuilding and Long-term Strategy
For Manchester United fans, the best hope lies in a well-crafted 3-year plan from the General Manager and coaching staff. It is crucial for them to devise a long-term strategy, make adjustments, and seize transfer opportunities without sacrificing their long-term vision. Whether this season marks a turning point remains to be seen, but a consistent plan could prove to be the game-changer.
Transference and Performance
Before delving into whether Manchester United can be considered title favorites, it is essential to revisit their transfer window during this season. While their recent dealings may not have been as impressive as those of other top clubs like Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester City, they still managed to secure some notable signings. Players like Lindel?f, Ziyech, and Mazraoui are expected to bring significant value to the team.
However, there are some facts to consider before labeling Manchester United as title contenders. Last season, they finished last in their UCL group and in 8th place overall. Meanwhile, Newcastle and Chelsea finished above them despite spending big on transfers and other misfortunes. Ten Hag, the current manager, faced intense media scrutiny until he managed to surprise everyone by leading Manchester United to victory in the FA Cup final.
Current Guard
Moreover, it is important to note that the current Manchester United front office, led by INEOS and Jim Ratcliffe, brings a new era of stability. Although they have a 25% stake, their involvement could be pivotal in the team's progress. It is also worth noting that no post-Ferguson manager has managed to win any trophy in their first two seasons, with Ten Hag being no exception. However, even a participation in the Mickey Mouse Cup could be seen as a positive step towards progress.
On the playing front, none of the newly signed players this season are comparable to the high-profile acquisitions in the past (e.g., Paul Pogba, Marcus Rashford, expect improvements in terms of consistency and team performance.
Conclusion and Competition
Whether Manchester United can win the Premier League depends on two key factors: their own performance and the competition. If they can consistently win games, maintain their players' health, and perform well in other competitions, then there is a chance. However, the competition is far from weak. Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester City did not have blockbuster windows this season, but it is still crucial for the top teams to capitalize on their transfer opportunities.
Lastly, there is a gut feeling that the Premier League could see another repeat of what happened in the 2015/16 season. West Ham, Tottenham, and Leicester City, as well as dark horses like Aston Villa, could make a run. Even Chelsea, often mocked for their large squad, could potentially achieve success. It is a challenging path, but with the right strategy and unwavering support from the fans, Manchester United have a chance to make history.
One thing is for sure, the odds favor Manchester United as they aim to reclaim their former glory in the Premier League this season. Let's see how they perform.