The 2024-25 Premier League campaign is about a month away as Manchester City seek an historic fifth-consecutive title while Manchester United will be eyeing a place back inside the top four after a disappointing season last time out.
Pep Guardiola’s side were taken to the final day by Arsenal last season but wins over Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United in the final two games saw them clinch their sixth title in seven years. Meanwhile, the Red Devils slumped to an eighth-place finish. However, Erik ten Hag’s men secured Europa League qualification by defeating City in the FA Cup final at Wembley.
That victory has given United a renewed sense of confidence going into next season as they seek to bolster their squad in their first transfer window since Sir Jim Ratcliffe purchased his minority stake in the club. Joshua Zirkzee was the club’s first signing of the summer after joining from Bologna last week. City are yet to make their first addition of the summer but have been linked with Spain’s Euro 2024 star Dani Olmo.
As clubs continue their transfer business, Manchester World has done the unenviable job of trying to predict how the Premier League table will look come May - and where the two Manchester clubs might finish compared to their rivals. Take a look...
1. 20th: Ipswich Town
Secured back-to-back promotions but Premier League survival could prove a step too far. Might finish bottom but will still pick up a respectable points tally. | Getty Images
2. 19th: Southampton
Promotion secured via the play-offs but with the strength of teams above them, might face a battle to retain top-flight status. | AFP via Getty Images
3. 18th: Brentford
Finished 16th last season, but with Ivan Toney and Bryan Mbuemo both linked with departures - the Bees could be in danger of dropping back into the Championship. | Getty Images
4. 17th: Leicester City
With Steve Cooper in charge, the Foxes might sneak over the line in a close relegation battle. | Getty Images