The 2024/25 Premier League season has shaped up as an exhilarating battle for supremacy among three iconic clubs: Liverpool, Manchester City, and Arsenal. Last season’s campaign saw Pep Guardiola’s dominant City clinch their fourth consecutive title. However, this year presents a new challenge, with the absence of star midfielder Rodri potentially derailing their ambitions.
Rodri, often hailed as the backbone of City’s midfield, has been instrumental in freeing attacking talents like Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne. The Spanish international’s brilliance was acknowledged with the prestigious Ballon d’Or following his crucial role in City’s domestic success and Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph. Now sidelined for the season due to injury, City’s rivals sense a golden opportunity to dethrone the champions.
With the season intensifying as the festive period approaches, which of these title contenders is best positioned to emerge victorious? Let’s examine.
Liverpool: The Resurgence Under Arne Slot
Liverpool’s transformation under new manager Arne Slot has been nothing short of remarkable. Transitioning from Jurgen Klopp’s high-pressing system to a more possession-based approach, the Merseysiders have reinvented themselves. Slot’s philosophy has delivered tangible results, with Liverpool topping the Premier League table after a thrilling comeback against Brighton at Anfield.
Trailing 1-0 at halftime, Liverpool showcased their resilience, with Cody Gakpo and Mohamed Salah securing a vital 2-1 win. This victory propelled them two points ahead of City, defying preseason expectations that ranked them behind the reigning champions and Arsenal.
Slot’s tactical evolution has also bolstered Liverpool’s defense. Their Expected Goals Against (xGA) metric has improved from 1.20 to a stingy 0.72 per 90 minutes, highlighting newfound defensive solidity. Offensively, while their average shots per game have slightly dipped, the likes of Salah, Alexis Mac Allister, and Ryan Gravenberch ensure Liverpool remain potent in attack.
With clashes against title rivals Manchester City and Chelsea on the horizon, maintaining this momentum is critical to their title aspirations.
Manchester City: Vulnerable Yet Dangerous
Defending champions Manchester City entered the season as clear favorites to secure a fifth consecutive title. However, Rodri’s injury has exposed vulnerabilities in Guardiola’s system. The midfield lynchpin’s absence has left City’s defense uncharacteristically fragile, with opponents often finding more success in breaking them down.
Despite these challenges, Erling Haaland continues to deliver. The Norwegian striker has already notched 10 goals, proving vital to City’s campaign. Yet, their success may hinge on addressing midfield frailties. City have overcome slow starts in previous seasons, clawing back deficits to overtake Arsenal in dramatic fashion.
This time, the competition feels fiercer. Liverpool’s resurgence has left City trailing by two points, making their showdown at Anfield on December 1 a potential turning point. A win there could reestablish City as the team to beat heading into 2025.
Arsenal: A Rocky Path to Redemption
Arsenal, under Mikel Arteta, have steadily climbed back into contention after years of underachievement. The North London club, once languishing mid-table, now boasts a young and dynamic squad led by Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard. Despite finishing as runners-up in consecutive seasons, the Gunners have struggled to overcome City’s relentless consistency.
This year, their journey has been less smooth. Costly slip-ups against newly promoted sides Leicester City and Southampton have seen Arsenal fall seven points behind Liverpool. To revive their title bid, the Gunners must regain focus and deliver consistent performances. Key players like Gabriel Martinelli, Saka, and Kai Havertz need to step up in the weeks ahead.
While Arsenal have proven they can compete with the best—securing a win and a draw against City last season—the margin for error is slim. A strong showing in the festive period could reignite their title challenge.
Who Will Prevail?
The 2024/25 Premier League season promises a gripping climax. Liverpool’s revival under Slot, City’s resilience despite setbacks, and Arsenal’s potential for redemption make this a three-horse race worth following. With key fixtures looming and the title contenders pushing the limits, fans are in for an electrifying season.
As the new year approaches, all eyes will be on the December 1 clash between Liverpool and City. Could it be the match that defines the title race? Only time will tell.
