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...
9. 12th: Everton
Finished 15th last season after two points deductions. However, with Amadou Onana joining Aston Villa - they will struggle to break into the top half. | AFP via Getty Images
10. 11th: Bournemouth
Enjoyed an impressive season under Andoni Iraola and have made some shrewd signings so far that should keep them well away from the bottom three once again. | Getty Images
11. 10th: Crystal Palace
Enjoyed a strong end to the season under Oliver Glasner, which bodes well for the 2024/25 campaign. However, finishing in the top half will likely hinge on the futures of Eberechi Eze and Marc Guehi with Michael Olise already departed. | Getty Images
12. 9th: West Ham
Finished ninth last season, but could struggle to better that under Julen Lopetegui due to the quality of sides above them. | Getty Images