Manchester City is on the quest for an unprecedented fourth consecutive Premier League title, but they are encountering a formidable challenge. As we delve into the second half of the season, let’s explore the top soccer betting site’s perspectives on the chances of each contender.
Favourites for the Premier League 2023/24 Title:
Manchester City:
As defending champions, Manchester City entered the season as clear favorites. However, their journey to retaining the title seems more arduous this time. After 21 games, Pep Guardiola’s squad is second, trailing the early leaders by five points (albeit with a game in hand). Despite winning nine of their first 11 matches, City dropped points in challenging fixtures against Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham, suffering a setback against Aston Villa. After a brief dip, they’ve bounced back with four consecutive wins, including a dramatic 3-2 triumph over Newcastle.
Liverpool:
Liverpool, leading the league into 2024, has put the struggles of the previous season behind them. Currently, they hold a five-point lead over second-placed Manchester City. With just one defeat in the Premier League so far, their 15 wins showcase their resilience. Following a controversial loss to Tottenham Hotspur, Jurgen Klopp’s side has been unbeaten in 15 games, with four straight victories, including a convincing 4-1 win over Chelsea.
Arsenal:
After narrowly missing out on the title in the 2022/23 season, Arsenal aims to end their long trophy drought. Mikel Arteta’s team, initially showing promise, faced setbacks with back-to-back losses to West Ham and Fulham, concluding 2023 with four defeats in their last 10 Premier League matches. Despite this, they’ve returned to winning form, securing a 5-0 victory against Crystal Palace and triumphing over Nottingham Forest in midweek.
Aston Villa:
Under the management of Unai Emery, Aston Villa entered the title conversation, but recent challenges have affected their bid. The Villans dropped to fourth, trailing leaders Liverpool by five points with a game in hand. A run of one win in five league games, coupled with a draw against Everton and a 3-1 defeat to Newcastle, interrupted their long unbeaten streak at Villa Park. However, they rebounded with a convincing 5-0 win over Sheffield United.
Tottenham:
Tottenham faced a challenging 2022/23 season but has shown improvement under new manager Ange Postecoglou. Despite an initial drop in form, including a run of five games with only one point, Tottenham secured a 4-1 win over Newcastle, followed by four victories in their next seven matches.
Manchester United:
Manchester United, despite finishing in the top four last season, has faced struggles under Erik ten Hag’s management. Currently eighth in the league with 11 wins from 22 games, the Red Devils have experienced nine defeats, including losses to Tottenham, Arsenal, Manchester City, and most recently, Nottingham Forest. The second season under ten Hag has yet to meet the expectations set after their initial campaign.
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