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When the final whistle blew at the Atatürk Olympic Stadium in Istanbul on 10 June, Man City completed a famous treble. The current Premier League and Carabao Cup holders became the UEFA Champions League champions as well.
Even before the famous victory in Turkey, bookmakers favoured Pep Guardiola’s team to retain the Premier League title in 2023/24. As such, it’s no surprise that Man City are the odds-on favourite with online betting sites, like the top ones provided by bettingsites.co.uk.
To date, The Citizens haven’t been too active in the current Summer transfer window. Many experts believe they don’t need to. Guardiola has only added Mateo Kovačić from Chelsea to replace the departed Ilkay Gundogan in midfield. Rumours abound that 21-year-old Croatian central defender, Joško Gvardiol, will join Kovačić at The Etihad sooner rather than later.
In his first Premier League campaign, Erling Haaland broke many long-standing league records. With a blossoming Julián Álvarez also taking his chances when offered, City aren’t lacking up front.
Kevin De Bruyne’s assist-friendly supports Jack Grealish and Phil Foden’s attacking style. This means the champs are in solid shape in the middle of the park as well. Bernardo Silva, if he stays in Manchester, only strengthens this department more.
Despite Man City’s ultimate dominance in the EPL last season, there were times when doubters backed another team for the title. Arsenal’s young side, ably managed by one-time Guardiola assistant, Mikel Arteta, were on top until April.
Consecutive draws at Liverpool, West Ham, and at home to Southampton changed matters, though. The Gunners needed an away win against the Citizens to maintain an advantage. The reigning champions were too strong on the day, though, romping to a 4-1 victory. From there, Man City never looked back.
Arsenal are currently second-favourites with the bookmakers as the new season approaches. Arteta has spent money in the current window, bringing in Chelsea’s Kai Havertz for £65 million. With ex-Citizen, Gabriel Jesus now fit and ably assisted by Bukayo Saka, Arsenal’s potential for goalscoring looks rosy.
The London club has all but confirmed the marquee signing of Declan Rice from West Ham. Rice will partner club captain, Martin Ødegaard, in central midfield so there’ll be no shortage of leadership in The Gunner’s ranks.
Of the other teams expected to provide competition to Man City’s dominance, Liverpool is most favoured by the bookies. The 2019/20 champions endured a torrid season last time out, but have since shored up their midfield frailties. World Cup winner, Alexis Mac Allister, and the Hungarian national captain, Dominik Szoboszlai, have signed in the current transfer window.
The red side of Manchester is also hoping for further improvement this season. Man Utd has experienced a revival under Erik ten Hag, and the acquisition of Mason Mount from Chelsea is a further positive sign. To truly compete, experts believe a striker is urgently needed. The Dane, Rasmus Højlund, from Serie A’s Atalanta, is strongly linked.
Eddie Howe’s Newcastle secured UEFA Champions League qualification last season. Tottenham Hotspur (if they can hold on to Harry Kane), join them among the best of the rest. Star-studded underachievers, Chelsea, under the new management of Mauricio Pochettino, should also challenge.
Those punters fancying a flutter at longer odds could do worse than to watch Brighton & Hove Albion. Roberto De Zerbi has drawn praise from all sides for his work at the Amex Stadium so far. Even Pep Guardiola is a fan.
Man City will start as clear favourites when the EPL kicks off on 11 August. Early results are always crucial in determining odds. With this in mind, punters should consider their options and place their bets early to make the most of the prices on offer.