English Premier League set for sensational return
Juliette Capomolla

BY KEREM DORUK

The countdown for the return of English football is on, with pundits tipping their title favourites and clubs finalising transfer deals.

The 2020-21 Premier League will start tomorrow, after the speculated date was confirmed on July 24.

Arsenal will play Fulham in a London derby on the opening weekend, with Chelsea facing off against Brighton. 

There will be 20 clubs in the 2020-21 Premier League. Leeds United, West Brom and Fulham having been promoted from the Championship League, while three other teams drop down a division.

Norwich City, Bournemouth and Watford lost the fight to retain their place in the EPL and were relegated to the Championship.

Fans will not be allowed to return to stadiums when the 2020-21 season starts, as sport continues its fight against COVID-19. 

However, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has targeted October for supporters to return to grounds.

Last season finished only a month ago, and the four weeks left for this season’s transfer window means the big five are matched for an exciting season.

MOJO News presents a comprehensive analysis of the top five favourites, which sheds some light on the season ahead. 

5. Arsenal

Mikel Arteta has been hailed the Messiah by Arsenal supporters following his tactical masterclasses in the Football Cup and the subsequent Community Shield.

The Spaniard appears to be convinced Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang will lead the Gunners to glory as he builds a team around the prolific goalscorer.

Arsenal ace Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang looks set to extend his stay at North London with a three-year contract extension. PHOTO: Instagram

The Gunners are in their best position since Wengers departure. 

They present an exciting offense with the likes of Nicholas Pepe and back line structure with Central defenders William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes.

While Arsenal’s rebuild looks to be coming together, Arteta’s squad will likely struggle against the four favourites in his bid to secure a top four finish. 

4. Manchester United

With Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in charge, United are looking to challenge for a league title with a combination of young talent and experience.

Portuguese penalty king Bruno Fernandes looks set to continue his fine run of form this season and the United midfield has been bolstered with the signing of Ajax midfielder Donny van de Beek.

Young Manchester United signing Donny Van Beek brings United creativity to the United midfield. PHOTO: Instagram

Solskjaer's enthusiasm seems to be paying off as the Red Devils search for Premier League silverware. 

United’s midfield should improve their creativity going forward and secure them a top four finish. 
 

3. Chelsea

Frank Lampard's transfer spree might bring championship glory back to Stamford Bridge.

Signings of Bundesliga stars Kai Haveertz and German goal scorer Timo Werner, along with the magical Hakim Ziyech from Ajax, make Chelsea an attacking threat against any opposition. 

Frank Lampard aims to create a dynasty at Stamford Bridge with his summer transfer spree. PHOTO: Instagram

While Lampard’s dynasty at Chelsea is underway, Chelsea will face tough competition from Manchester City and Liverpool. 

The pressure is on at Stamford Bridge with a season that will make or break Lampard's managerial career.

2. Liverpool

Jurgen Kloop's champions retain their core lineup, with the expected signing of additional midfielder Thiago Alcantara from Bayern Munich.

Although Liverpool remain title favourites their starting lineup is expecting a challenge from the transfer sprees of their rivals. PHOTO: Instagram

Their defense was also bolstered with Greek Left-back Konstantinos Tsimikas, signed from Olympiacos.

Liverpool remain a solid side for the start of the 2020/21 season, although sides will look to exploit their disappointing late season form revealed last season.

1. Manchester City 

Manchester City fans received bad news following Messi's announcement which confirmed he would commit to Barcelona for another year.

Nevertheless, Guardiola's side isn't taking last season's Premier League disappointment lightly.

It is hoped Nathan Ake's £40m arrival from Bournemouth will bolster City's defensive capabilities

Manchester City completed the 40 million-pound signing of Bournemouth defender Nathan Ake. PHOTO: Instagram

Manchester City will begin the season with their core lineup, the only exception being club legend David Silva. 

They are likely the only club who will present a tough challenge to reigning champions Liverpool.

Guordiola looks set to clash with Jurgen’s Liverpool this season, with City’s funds making them serious title contenders this season. 

With action from England's top flight beginning on Saturday, Victorians in lockdown can watch the Premier League restart on Optus Sport.

The schedule for the matches is available here.