We’re just one week into the Premier League season, which means it’s time to overreact and start making predictions for the title. Haaland is already back in form and helped his side cruise to an easy victory against Burnley as they look to defend their championship. Last season’s title contenders, Arsenal, had a late scare in their opening fixture against Nottingham Forest but still took the three points thanks to Saka’s wonder goal.
While both Manchester City and Arsenal are expected to be battling for the title once again this season, both sides also suffered from unfortunate injuries in their first game back. Man City lost Kevin de Bruyne to a recurring hamstring injury, while Arsenal’s Jurrien Timber tore his ACL. Both are expected to be out for several months, potentially harming their title hopes.
You can bet on all this season’s EPL fixtures online, with Arizona online sports betting now live and legal. City remain the favorites to lift the trophy once more, while Liverpool, Manchester United and Chelsea are just behind Arsenal.
Kevin De Bruyne Out for the Rest of the Year?
De Bruyne has been a key player for Manchester City, helping them lift five Premier League titles in six seasons and complete the treble last season. However, he suffered a hamstring injury in the Champions League final and despite his recovery, has seemingly torn it again. He managed 28 minutes of City’s opening fixture against Burnley before hobbling off and could be out for an extended period of time.
Current estimates put his return at somewhere between four and six months, so he may not be back until January. De Bruyne’s ability to influence the game will be sorely missed, as he scored seven goals and eighteen assists last season. However, City do have plenty of quality backup. They just signed Kovacic this summer, and Phil Foden or Jack Grealish could potentially play in the same role.
Arsenal Lose a Key Defender for the Season?
Jurrien Timber was playing his first competitive game in an Arsenal shirt when he went off injured, seemingly with a torn ACL. Knee injuries can be terrible for athletes, and most players will typically be out for a season due to the lengthy rehab process after surgery. While he was a new signing for the club, his game time in preseason suggested he’s favored by Arsenal boss Arteta.
Not only was Timber an important player on the left side of the Arsenal defense, but he could also fill in and provide cover in other positions too. This will be a big blow to the team as they look to challenge Man City once more. Without the defensive depth, they may struggle once again in the latter stages of the season, though it’s still early to say.
Other Premier League Title Contenders
The sportsbooks currently have Liverpool, Man United and Chelsea behind Arsenal and Man City in the title race. Based on the first game week, we’d have to say that Chelsea offer the biggest chance of upsetting the odds. They’ve undergone a huge rebuild under their new ownership, and will be adding yet more players before their next fixture.
Chelsea looked strong in their opening fixture against Liverpool, who were dangerous in attack but open in midfield. The Reds are definitely one or two signings off challenging for the title, but they could still be a major force, especially with that lethal attack.
Meanwhile, Manchester United were the most disappointing of the title challengers in their opening game. They scraped to a win against Wolves at home and were fortunate that their new signing Onana didn’t give away a penalty. If they want to live up to expectations, big changes are still needed.
