Liverpool secured their 20th English league title.
Liverpool: 1st
McNulty’s pre-season prediction: 3rd
A deserving champion, Liverpool dominated from the outset, exhibiting unwavering consistency while rivals faltered. Manager Arne Slot masterfully navigated the challenging task of succeeding Jürgen Klopp, exceeding expectations. Mohamed Salah led the charge, but Liverpool’s strength lay in the collective quality and depth across the squad. Further bolstering their already formidable lineup, a potential record-breaking £125m transfer of Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen is in the works.
McNulty’s August statement: “Despite fan concerns over a lack of signings, Liverpool retain an exceptionally strong squad. They are poised to contend for trophies and secure a top-four finish.”
Arsenal: 2nd
McNulty’s pre-season prediction: 2nd
A somewhat disappointing campaign for Arsenal, despite a second-place finish and a Champions League semi-final appearance. The lack of silverware for manager Mikel Arteta, now five years without a trophy, necessitates a strong response next season. An excessive number of draws and the failure to address the striker deficiency last summer hampered their progress. This must be rectified immediately.
McNulty’s August statement: “Arsenal must acquire a proven goalscorer before the transfer window closes; a crucial element missing despite last season’s excellent performance.”
Manchester City: 3rd
McNulty’s pre-season prediction: Champions
A significant underperformance by their high standards, failing to mount a serious challenge for a fifth consecutive Premier League title. Losses to Real Madrid in the Champions League and Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final compounded their disappointments.
Pep Guardiola’s attempt to downplay the season’s shortcomings felt hollow. This relative failure will undoubtedly fuel a determined response from the club.
McNulty’s August statement: “Consider betting against them. Then reconsider. There will be a season where Manchester City don’t win the Premier League – I’m just not sure this is it.”
Chelsea: 4th
McNulty’s pre-season prediction: 7th
Enzo Maresca deserves credit for securing Champions League qualification on the final day and reaching the Europa Conference League final. However, the season was inconsistent, and Maresca’s playing style remains a subject of debate amongst fans. Chelsea’s title aspirations faded around October due to a dip in form, particularly from Cole Palmer. Summer priorities include upgrading the goalkeeper position and acquiring a reliable goalscorer.
McNulty’s August statement: “It’s impossible to predict Chelsea’s trajectory in the next 20 minutes, let alone by May.”
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Newcastle United: 5th
McNulty’s pre-season prediction: 9th
A remarkable season under Eddie Howe, culminating in their first domestic trophy in 70 years – the Carabao Cup – and a return to the Champions League. Despite a final-day loss, their Champions League qualification was secured following Manchester United’s win against Aston Villa. This success should ensure key players Alexander Isak and Bruno Guimaraes remain at the club, forming the foundation for future growth.
McNulty’s August statement: “Top 10 finish, but some uncertainty remains at Newcastle.”
Aston Villa: 6th
McNulty’s pre-season prediction: 4th
Aston Villa’s strong season ended on a sour note with a controversial loss to Manchester United, denying them consecutive Champions League appearances. Despite this, Unai Emery’s achievements should serve as a benchmark for other ambitious clubs. The team’s failure to progress in the FA Cup semi-final and the final-day defeat marred their overall positive campaign. Nonetheless, Emery’s impact on the team and the presence of promising young players like Morgan Rogers offers substantial cause for optimism.
McNulty’s August statement: “Champions League football will test Emery’s squad, but I predict another top-four finish.”
Nottingham Forest: 7th
McNulty’s pre-season prediction: 16th
The mere discussion of disappointment at missing Champions League qualification highlights Nottingham Forest’s exceptional season under Nuno Espírito Santo. While a missed opportunity, a mid-table finish would have been a fantastic achievement at the start of the season. Key players like Chris Wood, Morgan Gibbs-White, Matz Sels, Murillo, and Nikola Milenkovic all made significant contributions. The club’s ambitious owner will undoubtedly support further strengthening of the squad for European competition.
McNulty’s August statement: “If Forest retain this squad (and they are always looking to add), they will remain in the Premier League.”
Brighton and Hove Albion: 8th
McNulty’s pre-season prediction: 12th
A solid and promising season under manager Fabian Hurzeler, with European hopes alive until the final day. Brighton’s attractive, high-energy style of play continued to impress. The club’s well-run structure will allow them to navigate the expected transfer interest in players like Joao Pedro and Kaoru Mitoma.
McNulty’s August statement: “This may not be a top-six season, but Brighton remain highly watchable.”
Bournemouth, anchored by the impressive Dean Huijsen in defense, briefly challenged for European spots.
Bournemouth: 9th
McNulty’s pre-season prediction: 14th
Despite fading towards the end of the season, Bournemouth’s higher-than-expected finish reflects the club’s improved ambitions. Manager Andoni Iraola is a valuable asset; retaining him will be crucial for future progress. Significant transfers of Dean Huijsen to Real Madrid and Milos Kerkez to Liverpool demonstrate Bournemouth’s growing status in the Premier League.
McNulty’s August statement: “Potential for anxiety, but I expect Bournemouth to survive under Iraola.”
Brentford: 10th
McNulty’s pre-season prediction: 17th
Thomas Frank continues to excel at Brentford, securing a top-ten finish and silencing pre-season doubters. The team’s entertaining style and the strong performances of Bryan Mbuemo and Yoane Wissa, even after Ivan Toney’s absence, highlight their remarkable consistency.
McNulty’s August statement: “This is arguably Frank’s greatest test yet.”
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Fulham: 11th
McNulty’s pre-season prediction: 13th
A solid season for Fulham under Marco Silva, although their FA Cup exit was disappointing. Their inconsistent form was a concern. Manager Marco Silva’s future at the club could be in question if Tottenham pursues him.
McNulty’s August statement: “Fulham’s season will largely depend on Silva, but I anticipate a relatively smooth campaign.”
Crystal Palace: 12th
McNulty’s pre-season prediction: 10th
A historic season for Crystal Palace, marked by their first FA Cup victory. Despite a slow start, their attacking prowess, solid defense, and midfield contributions created an entertaining team. The FA Cup win was a fitting reward for their loyal fanbase, and Oliver Glasner’s appointment proved highly successful. Maintaining squad continuity is key for their continued progress.
McNulty’s August statement: “Glasner’s attacking approach should make for another entertaining season at Selhurst Park.”
Crystal Palace overcame a poor start to finish 12th in the Premier League, but their FA Cup triumph marks a historic season.
Everton: 13th
McNulty’s pre-season prediction: 11th
A season of despair turned to hope following Sean Dyche’s dismissal and David Moyes’ return. The new ownership and Moyes’ appointment sparked a remarkable resurgence, highlighted by three consecutive league wins at the end of the season. A significant squad overhaul is anticipated under Moyes’ guidance, setting the stage for a brighter future at their new stadium.
McNulty’s August statement: “Everton’s success will depend on injury luck and additional signings, but I don’t foresee them struggling.”
West Ham United: 14th
McNulty’s pre-season prediction: 8th
A disappointing season for West Ham, marked by Julen Lopetegui’s short-lived and unsuccessful tenure. Graham Potter’s appointment has yet to yield significant improvements. Potter’s impact will be better judged once he’s shaped the squad, likely building around Jarrod Bowen. A significant turnaround is necessary.
McNulty’s August statement: “Julen Lopetegui replaces David Moyes, whose full value to West Ham may become apparent.”
Manchester United: 15th
McNulty’s pre-season prediction: 5th
A disastrous season for Manchester United, marked by managerial changes and poor performances. Manager Ruben Amorim’s public apologies reflect the club’s dire state. The season represents their worst top-flight finish since 1973-74. Significant issues exist both on and off the pitch, from managerial decisions to player performance and discontent among fans and stakeholders.
McNulty’s August statement: “Ten Hag needs a strong start to avoid further speculation, despite a new contract.”
Wolverhampton Wanderers: 16th
McNulty’s pre-season prediction: 15th
Wolves’ season was marked by managerial changes, with Vitor Pereira’s arrival sparking a revival. Their late-season form declined after securing safety, but the appointment of Pereira shows promise. The potential departure of Matheus Cunha to Manchester United is a notable factor.
McNulty’s August statement: “I believe Wolves can avoid relegation, and hopefully receive fairer treatment from VAR this season.”
Ange Postecoglou guided Tottenham to their first trophy in 17 years, yet a dismal league campaign resulted in a 17th-place finish.
Tottenham Hotspur: 17th
McNulty’s pre-season prediction: 6th
Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy faces a difficult decision regarding manager Ange Postecoglou. The disappointing league performance contrasts sharply with their Europa League victory. Postecoglou’s success in securing the first trophy in 17 years will be weighed against the abysmal league showing. The decision on his future remains uncertain.
McNulty’s August statement: “A very interesting season ahead for Spurs.”
Leicester City: 18th
McNulty’s pre-season prediction: 19th
Leicester City’s season was marked by managerial changes and ultimately relegation. The appointment of Ruud van Nistelrooy failed to prevent their downfall, ending Jamie Vardy’s long tenure at the club on a disappointing note. The team’s poor performance and fan discontent led to a difficult season.
McNulty’s August statement: “Cooper and Leicester could defy expectations, but face a challenging uphill battle.”
Ipswich Town: 19th
McNulty’s pre-season prediction: 20th
Ipswich’s return to the Premier League proved challenging under Kieran McKenna. Despite Liam Delap’s strong performances, the team’s overall performance wasn’t sufficient for survival. McKenna may believe he has a squad capable of another promotion attempt next season.
McNulty’s August statement: “Staying up would be a significant achievement.”
Southampton: 20th
McNulty’s pre-season prediction: 18th
A dismal season for Southampton, marked by managerial changes and a relegation to the Championship. Russell Martin’s tactical approach proved ineffective, and Ivan Juric’s subsequent appointment failed to improve results. The club’s loyal fanbase deserves better. Will Still’s appointment offers a fresh start in the Championship.
McNulty’s August statement: “Martin’s strategy is high-risk in the Premier League, but he seems committed.”
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