I didn't really follow this season as I used to due to my new work keeping me busy, but you can be sure that'll change starting August. This has been by far the most eventful season in the past few years. Liverpool finishing second with only one game lost, and 97 points!!! UNREAL! Man City winning the title again, absolutely incredible both semi final replays in Champions League and for the first time in history of football all four finalists in Europe are from the Premier League. The magic of English league is back and in much more grand style. But none of that matters to me because there is only one unbelievable thing that happened this season in football which I still can't quite get over. Chris Wilder's Sheffield United are back in the top division. As I write this, it still feels like a review of a Fifa career mode season. I reckon nobody could even dream of this crazy year, so let's have a look of what I predicted before it all kicked off.
REVIEW OF THE SEASON
1. Manchester City (My prediction 3rd)
Well, pretty much the same team as last year, which means - crowned Champions! But it had to go down to the last day to be decided. What a run they had with the scousers. Very enjoyable battle between the two, watched by the whole nation. Them two literally flew away from the rest of the teams and had the whole Premier League for themselves. But City just showed much more character and overcoming 7 point deficit is something only a great club like City can achieve. People say they bought the league, but that's yesterday's news. Just get over it. It might have been an issue when they won their first title, but to do it again and again and become one of the best teams in the world, that's something money will help you achieve, but won't do the whole job. I used to dislike City, but now I really enjoy watching them, and can't wait for us to have a go next season.
2. Liverpool (My prediction 2nd)
I am sooooooooooooooooooooo glad they didn't win the fucking thing. Such a relief. I hate to listen to any of them now, imagine what would happen if they'd actually won it. Deluded Liverpoolians saying they are the best in the world, and then there are other who say Klopp out and Mourinho in. I've got two words to say about Liverpool.
Laughing stock!
One man I'm sorry for is Jurgen. That man is doing the incredible with this bunch of kids. I must admit, they have a strong and young defence. If they'll manage to keep their defenders defending (which is more than likely) they'll keep pushing on to win the title, and fuck me if they do. However without Mo Chicken Caesar Salad (maybe Mane), they would have a lot more to worry about than one point difference.
So, nothing more really to say about the top 2 teams. Their football speak for itself.
3. Chelsea (My prediction 4th)
It was Chelsea's unlucky season to forget, wasn't it? Two lost finals (Community Chield/Carabao Cup), Kepa doing what he wants, racist abuse from the fans, getting Hazard out of the Bridge and Chelsea just being Chelsea. Despite it all they still managed to finish in the bronze position and winning the Europa League. I couldn't see them even qualify for the UCL a couple of months back. It feels like Higuain was just a waste of money. He didn't really help the squad that urgently needed helping. But somehow they managed to get by and a couple of good results later they top the 'normal' part of the table.
4. Tottenham (My prediction 1st)
Okay. So it was a bit far fetched of me to think they were going to win the league, but back then I didn't know they ain't gonna sign anyone and their stadium is going to be ready 7 games before the end of the season. I'm not saying it would win them the title (especially with Man City and Liverpool this season) but it would make a difference. But I think wherever Spurs finished, as long as they qualified for the Champions League next season, they have other things to worry about. What a achievement getting into the Champions League final. This has got to be a game of every Spurs supporter's lifetime. Well done Poch! Shame it had a bitter ending.
5. Arsenal (My prediction 9th)
So after Wenger's departure I couldn't see a succesful season for the gunners. But as it turns out, Emery is just as bad as Arsene. Solid at home, absolutely shocking away. So maybe it's the players after all. Or is it Emirates? I really don't know. What I know is that it's unlikely to change anytime soon.
I have to give a big shoutout to Aubemayang or however the fuck you spell his name. He's done brilliantly this season and no wonder he joined Salah and Mane with the Golden Boot.
6. Manchester United (My prediction 5th)
I got almost everything right with the Devils. Mourinho is gone and there is no Champions League for them next year. Now Ole's at the wheel it has to be a huge summer at Old Trafford in terms of transfers (in and out) to get at least close to the good old days. Now there is absolute chaos and panic in the team and among the fans and I really wish Ole will clean this mess up. He really deserves it.
7. Wolves (My prediction 12th)
What a side they turned out to be! Nuno, what a manager! He turned this club inside out, upside down. Changed them completely and practically won the outside top 6 league. Huge respect. Just a quick fact. They beat all four European finalists. Just let that sink in. I'm actually surprised they didn't finish any higher.
8. Everton (My prediction 16th)
Everton have an amazing squad, but somehow they couldn't make it work last season and I just couldn't see anything changing this year either. However it turns out I was wrong. And I'll take that on the chin. Fair play to them. They had a good season.
9. Leicester (My prediction 17th)
Leicester without Mahrez still did quite well. Although when I made my prediction I didn't know he would leave and I still didn't believe in them. They really are not just a one man club. Although it would be interesting to see where they would be without Vardy. Jamie is still with the foxes though, so I reckon the fans at the King's power stadium are going to see some more of this pleasant football.
10. West Ham (My prediction 10th)
The one thing that keeps West Ham behind is that bloody Olympic stadium. I just cannot imagine them being succesful at that place. It has no atmosphere and the fans are just not happy. They had some decent results this season, but it's just not enough.
11. Watford (My prediction 18th)
I don't know why I always want to see them going down. Watford is a club I've never seen playing some mouthwatering football. They do their job, but there's something that doesn't quite fit into this succesful club. I can't put a finger on it, but maybe it's just me. I obviously learnt and I'll be looking at them in a different perspective in the future.
12. Crystal Palace (My prediction 8th)
I'm shocked they finished in the bottom half of the table. They played some magnificent football this season and some of their players showed an incredible individual talent. I'd be surprised if they'll manage to keep them all. When they visited Etihad, I simply knew something was about to happen. And how right I was. I dare anyone to watch out for this team, because if they are going to keep playing the way they are, Palace are going to be a tough team to beat.
13. Newcastle (My prediction 6th)
I'm surprised they had to fight in the relegation zone for a while. They have great players, amazing ground, loud and loyal fans and a brilliant manager. Sunderland are in League 1 and Newcastle should be having the season of their lives, while they are looking below them rather than upwards.
14. Bournemouth (My prediction 14th)
The most exciting thing about Eddie Howe's side for me was Brooksy. The young lad did extraordinarily well in the red and black shirt. I absolutely loved watching his progress. It's safe to say that every fan down at the south coast had a pleasant year. The final position is not quite the reflection on their season, but they can be happy with that. They are just Bournemouth after all.
15. Burnley (My prediction 15th)
They had their fun in Europa League and did pretty well. The league went back to the old days, when small town called Burnley are battling with Premier League clubs. They never really had to worry about the relegation and I can imagine that after last year it was a bit of step down for their fans, but Burnley are punching above their weight just by being in the top division.
16. Southampton (My prediction 13th)
They didn't have a very good run of games, did they? Well, to be honest they didn't really have the players to do any wonders at all. So they can be happy that they dodged the relegation and are in the league also next year.
17. Brighton (My prediction 11th)
The team every Liverpool fan supported on the final day of the season. Unfortunately for the reds they didn't manage to make any surprises for the footballing world. And not only in that game against City, but in the whole season. They managed to stay up just by one point, but they didn't show a much of a challenge for most teams this season. Sacking Chris Houghton might have been a mistake though and I suspect it will backfire next year.
18. Cardiff (My prediction 19th)
Neil Warnock's men fought until the last breath, but it just wasn't enough. Actually I could see them pleying a lot worse, but they did surprise me. And I'm sure I'm not the only one who was impressed by their will to fight for Premier League. But as we all know it wasn't enough and Cardiff are going back where they came from.
19. Fulham (My prediction 7th)
Okay! This was an absolute miss on my part. It was worse than Ramos' penalty. But after seeing them a year before, they were completely different side back then. Supported by huge signings I really thought and wished them to do well. It absolutely didn't work out and I'm gutted to see them going back down. I don't think I'll ever get anything more wrong than this prediction.
20. Huddersfield (My prediction 20th)
Well, last season was surprising enough and they couldn't deal with this level of football forever. So down they go and quite frankly I can't see them going back up anytime soon. Sorry Huddersfield.
FA Cup - I went for Liverpool, and although they did managed to reach a final of one of the cups, it wasn't the one back home.
League Cup - I seriously thought Jose was going to win one more trophy before leaving, but it was the other side of Manchester who got their hands on the cup. If it wasn't for Kepa, who knows what would had happened?
Community Chield - I am getting fucking sick of predicting this. How many more times am I gonna get it wrong? It's literally 50/50 chance and I went for Chelsea. Same as the League cup, Chelsea fell short on Citizens.
Champions League - Whatever I predicted, I would be a madman to guess that Liverpool and Spurs will get to the final. I got close with Tottenham by just one round, when I could see them finishing in semis. And God, how close was I?
A bloody VAR! If that City's goal was allowed against Spurs, they mght have actually go and do it all the way and my prediction would be a masterclass. But that didn't happen. VAR disallowed the goal and they went out in the quarter finals. What a shame!
Man United did a lot better than I expected I must say. And especially after THAT PSG game. But as always it came to an end a little too quick for the red devils.
Europa League - Again, I could see one of the London clubs to reach the final, but to see both of them in it? No way! Don't get me wrong, I'm overjoyed that this has happened, but I could never see it coming. And as I said I couldn't see a succesful season for Arsenal either, so I can't believe that they got so far.
But to be honest I was hoping for a more exciting times at Burnley. They still did unbelievably well, but it just wasn't enough.
Championship promotion - I could see Frankie doing his magic and go and win it all. But getting to the Play-off final isn't a bad thing to have on your CV either. Especially in your first season. But Norwich? I could not see that coming before the season started. Let me tell you. But I am greatly happy for them!
Stoke was way off what I had in mind when I said they'll be in automatic promotion place. But I can't quite complain about the actual reality can I? UP THE BLADES! I still cannot believe it though. Really! I literally can't believe it. Maybe when we'll kick off the first game in the Premier League, maybe then it'll start sinking in.
In the play-offs I went for the fucking scum, but I'm glad to say, they bottled it (again) and Leeds are falling apart again!
So what does that come to? Let's recap how I did:
Final Table | My Prediction | ||
1. Man City | 1. Spurs | +3 | |
2. L'pool | 2. L'pool | 0 | |
3. Chelsea | 3. Man City | -2 | |
4. Spurs | 4. Chelsea | -1 | |
5. Arsenal | 5. Man United | +1 | |
6. Man United | 6. Newcastle | +7 | |
7. Wolves | 7. Fulham | +12 | |
8. Everton | 8. C. Palace | +4 | |
9. Leicester | 9. Arsenal | -4 | |
10. W. Ham | 10. W. Ham | 0 | |
11. Watford | 11. Brighton | +6 | |
12. C. Palace | 12. Wolves | -5 | |
13. N'castle | 13. Southampton | +3 | |
14. Bournemouth | 14. Bournemouth | 0 | |
15. Burnley | 15. Burnley | 0 | |
16. Southampton | 16. Everton | -8 | |
17. Brighton | 17. Leicester | -8 | |
18. Cardiff | 18. Watford | -7 | |
19. Fulham | 19. Cardiff | -1 | |
20. Huddersfield | 20. Huddersfield | 0 |
Difference: 72!
It's better than my last prediction, BUT!!! I got 5 team positions spot on! And that's an amazing feeling! I also guessed right two teams out of three to go down, which isn't easy. But there is always a room for an improvement.
I also did lower leagues. Here it goes:
CHAMPIONSHIP
Final Table | My Prediction | ||
1. Norwich | 1. Derby County | +5 | |
2. Sheff Utd | 2. Stoke City | +14 | |
3. Leeds | 3. Middlesborough | +4 | |
4. WBA | 4. Wigan Athletic | +14 | |
5. Aston Villa | 5. Leeds United | -2 | |
6. Derby | 6. Sheffield United | -4 | |
7. M'borough | 7. Hull City | +6 | |
8. Bristol City | 8. Blackburn | +7 | |
9. Forest | 9. Birmingham | +8 | |
10. Swansea | 10. S. Wednesday | +2 | |
11. Brentford | 11. Aston Villa | -6 | |
12. S. Wednesday | 12. Swansea | -2 | |
13. Hull City | 13. Brentford | -2 | |
14. Preston | 14. Rotherham | +8 | |
15. Blackburn | 15. WBA | -11 | |
16. Stoke City | 16. Bristol City | -8 | |
17. B'gham | 17. Ipswich | +7 | |
18. Wigan | 18. Forest | -9 | |
19. QPR | 19. Reading | +1 | |
20. Reading | 20. Millwall | +1 | |
21. Millwall | 21. Norwich | -20 | |
22. R'ham | 22. Bolton | +1 | |
23. Bolton | 23. Preston | -9 | |
24. Ipswich | 24. QPR | -5 |
Difference: 156!
WOW! This didn't quite work out. Few teams even in double digits. Especially Norwich. Well, it's always hard in lower leagues, but this is too much even for me.
LEAGUE ONE
Final Table | My Prediction | ||
1. Luton | 1. Sunderland | +4 | |
2. Barnsley | 2. Portsmouth | +2 | |
3. Charlton | 3. Charlton | 0 | |
4. P'mouth | 4. P'borough | +3 | |
5. Sunderland | 5. Plymouth | +16 | |
6. Doncaster | 6. Blackpool | +4 | |
7. P'borough | 7. Wimbledon | +13 | |
8. Coventry | 8. Coventry | 0 | |
9. Burton | 9. Accrington | +5 | |
10. Blackpool | 10. Walsall | +12 | |
11. Fleetwood | 11. Southend | +8 | |
12. Oxford | 12. Bradford | +12 | |
13. Gillingham | 13. Wycombe | +4 | |
14. Accring. | 14. Rochdale | +2 | |
15. Bristol R. | 15. Luton | -14 | |
16. Rochdale | 16. Burton | -7 | |
17. Wycombe | 17. Shrewsbury | +1 | |
18. Shrews. | 18. Barnsley | -16 | |
19. Southend | 19. Oxford | -7 | |
20. Wmbldn | 20. Bristol R. | -5 | |
21. Plymouth | 21. Gillingham | -8 | |
22. Walsall | 22. Fleetwood | -11 | |
23. S'torphe | 23. Doncaster | -17 | |
24. Bradford | 24. S'torphe | -1 |
Difference: 172!
So my prediction for this table was all over the place. At least I got two teams right but that is the only positove I can possibly take from this.
LEAGUE TWO
Final Table | My Prediction | ||
1. Lincoln | 1. N.County | +22 | |
2. Bury | 2. Swindon | +11 | |
3. MK Dons | 3. Oldham | +11 | |
4. Mansfield | 4. Exeter | +5 | |
5. F. Green | 5. Lincoln | -4 | |
6. Tranmere | 6. Yeovil | +18 | |
7. Newport | 7. Stevenage | +3 | |
8. Colchester | 8. N'hampton | +7 | |
9. Exeter | 9. Tranmere | -3 | |
10. Stevenage | 10. Carlisle | +1 | |
11. Carlisle | 11. Grimsby | +6 | |
12. Crewe | 12. MK Dons | -9 | |
13. Swindon | 13. Camb. | +8 | |
14. Oldham | 14. Newport | -7 | |
15. N'hampton | 15. Colch. | -7 | |
16. Ch'ham | 16. Mansfield | -12 | |
17. Grimsby | 17. Crewe | -5 | |
18. M'cambe | 18. Ch'ham | -2 | |
19. Crawley | 19. M'cambe | -1 | |
20. Port Vale | 20. Bury | -18 | |
21. Cambridge | 21. M'field | +1 | |
22. M'field | 22. Crawley | -3 | |
23. N. County | 23. F. Green | -18 | |
24. Yeovil | 24. Port Vale | -4 |
Difference: 186!
Yep! You can see the pattern. The lower it goes the worse it gets. But to be honest I don't think I'll ever get any team more wrong than Notts County this season. I could actually see them winning the league. But to my dissapointment I am incredibly sad to see them being relegated for the first time out of the league football. I really wish and hope they will bounce back quickly, because I will miss them for sure. Would be lovely to see another Nottingham derby.
Yep! You can see the pattern. The lower it goes the worse it gets. But to be honest I don't think I'll ever get any team more wrong than Notts County this season. I could actually see them winning the league. But to my dissapointment I am incredibly sad to see them being relegated for the first time out of the league football. I really wish and hope they will bounce back quickly, because I will miss them for sure. Would be lovely to see another Nottingham derby.
It's a very hard job to get these guesses even more wrong, but let's give it a try. However, fingers crossed, I'll get at least a decent result next year. Emotions aside, brain is turned on at its fullest, let's do this!
PREDICTION OF 2019/2020 SEASON
1. MANCHESTER CITY
Well, I reckon they're going to do it again. A treble of titles. I just can't see anyone stopping them. Even if they sell half of their squad, they still will be a decent side. Pep is a magnificent manager and he will do everything to win it again. And I'm sure they will. I was thinking they were just a one season wonder last year. Well, I don't think so anymore. However it's not going to be one (or two) horse race this season. It will be much more closer affair and maybe even few teams will change at the throne before the citizens will settle up there.
2. LIVERPOOL
Scousers have been chasing the Premier League title ever since it begun and always failed. Something tells me that next year is NOT going to be their year. As always. But they will never learn. Yes, they have great players and they play brilliant football, but they just don't understand that while you have the Liverpool badge on your shirt, you will never be celebrating the Premier League title. You're cursed you motherfuckers! I cursed you! As did many many others.
And as I already mentioned, it's not goimng to be a 20 point gap again. They'll be lucky to be in Champions League spot.
3. CHELSEA
The transfer ban is only going to help the team. But this prediction is very hard for me to make. I still don't know if Hazard will stay (probably not), If Sarri will face the sack (probably yes) and if they won't let any big players go (probably not). But the ban will mean there will be no new players, therefore the teammates that already know each other are going to stay together and play the game they know. And nobody is going to have any big expectations of anyone like they had with Higuain. There will be no pressure on them and that's why I think they will fly through the league quite easily. Just look at Spurs. No signings and what a bunch great players they turned out to be.
4. MANCHESTER UNITED
The situation at the Old Trafford is a huge mess. And I believe Ole is the man to sort it out and he'll have to prove himself in the upcoming transfer window. It is only a matter of time until the Red Devils start playing like everybody once used to know them. They have great players and big potential, but a lot of the things are very wrong at the club. The only question is: Can Ole handle it? I believe in him enough for the Champions League spot.
5. TOTTENHAM
There is something about the new stadiums isn't it? Emirates, Olympic or many more are just a quick example. And I think the curse is going to be passed on to the White Hart Lane. After amazing last season where they managed to get to the Champions League final, I don't believe they will be playing it in the season after next, although I'm sure it would be pretty close. (maybe even goal difference). And God help them if I'm right. If that's the case, I'm sure a few players will be updating their CVs on totaljobs. (It perhaps doesn't work that way, but you know what I mean)
6. EVERTON
A big surprise of the season will come from Liverpool. Evertonians will celebrate quite a succesful season. And no wonder why. They have a team full of superstars and if they'll continue to splash their money like they do, I'm sure the'll become new Spurs and soon we'll be talking about the big 7 or big 8. Europa League spot for them as far as I'm concerned.
7. ARSENAL
Living literally on their front porch I can see so many wrong things with this club. Their fans still live in 2004 invicibles season. But instead of Therry Henry, Patrick Viera and Denis Bergkamp, they are now watching Xahka, Elneny and Monreal. And then they wonder what's happening to their beloved. Emery is facing a terrible season and possibly his last at Emirates. It's going downhill with Arsenal and I don't see any stop to it.
8. SHEFFIELD UNITED
I am possibly wrong with this one. It is very likely that the Blades will finish in the Champions league spot or even winning the fucking thing. WTF??? you might say. But let's talk in a year's time. You'll just wait and see. Without a doubt the most underrated bunch in all fotball leagues. From Billy Sharp through Alan Knill to Carl Hopwood - the kitman.
9. CRYSTAL PALACE
I don't think the fact that Place will finish in the top half of the table will be the most satysfying factor in the Eagles' season. But let's not jump ahead. You'll see further in my predictions. Nevertheless the fans at Selhurst park will get their money worth for their season tickets. It's going to be a pleasant ride for them.
10. WATFORD
OK! So after two years of me predicting them to go down, I finally learned my lession. Watford are a decent Premier League club. However if anything happens and they'll go down, I'm never doing this again!!!
11. BOURNEMOUTH
Good old Bournemouth. What more could they wish for. A regular Premier League side was the furtherst thing from their imagination few years back. But Eddie Howe put this south coast team in the most prestigious league of them all, and made them feel like at home. Let's be honest, they're not going to be challenging City or Liverpool, so this is the best they can wish for.
12. WEST HAM
How this team is still in the top flight is beyond me. The fans are unhappy, the stadium is horrendous, and all of the players could do better. But after all they still manage to get results. Somehow. Whatever happens next season, it's time for revange from Sheffield United. It is going to be a heated meeting between those two. Well, maybe I'm wrong and Sheffield will relegate them in the last game of the season? Well, you know, it's football. And we heard some incredible tales over the years so never say never.
13. WOLVERHAMTON
This wonder team has done incredibly well last season (and season before that) so I'm sure they will continue in this fashion. However the Europa League is going to wear the players out and they won't be as much of a threat to other teams as they used to be. Still, there won't be any big worries about the relegation though.
14. NORWICH
The canaries had done well in past 10 months. But I don't see them shine in the Premier League. It will be a tough place to visit, but some teams will find their way past them. It's the away record they're going to suffer from. Maybe I'm going too much into detail now, but I don't see this as a one-year trip for them. They'll be safe before May.
15. LEICESTER
The one year wonder team is back to its normal and that means bottom part of the table. It is nice of Jamie Vardy to stick around the club that took him where he is now, but I think he's wasting his talent. He doesn't have much more years to play and maybe trying something new would be best for him. But I don't think it would happen and he'll keep the decency of Leicester for a few more years. Of course Leicester are not a one-man-club, but he plays a major role. The same could be said about Kasper Schmeichel, but he's just a young lad and will move on after a few years. But to be quite honest I give Leicester just a few more seasons in the Prem.
16. NEWCASTLE
Mike Ashley selling the club is the best thing Newcastle fans heard since Alan Sheerer got a new car. The club will transform in major style, but all that takes some time and therefore I don't believe next season will be the one when they will start to be one of the top teams in the Premier League again. Not just yet.
17. ASTON VILLA
The new promoted team are going to dodge the bullet. Almost relegated, but saved in the end. Something tells me they might spend some time at the very bottom, but somehow they'll climb back up. I like Villa and hope they'll stay up. Well, apart form John Terry. I hope he'll break his leg and retire!
18. BURNLEY
Sean Dyche has done a magnificent job at the small town of Burnley, but his time has come. He will go down with the team from Turf Moor. A sad day for them and their fans, but they will go down proud. Last season it was a European football for them, the next one will be a trip to Luton.
19. SOUTHAMPTON
I am pretty confident that Southampton will go down. They weren't anything special this season and if it wasn't for Danny Ings, I think they might as well be playing in the Championship from August. I'm sorry but down you go!
20. BRIGHTON
And last but not least...actuallty yes. Last and least, it's Brighton. They've done their bit in the Premier League and now it's time to go back where they came from. It will be a nightmare season for the Hoves. The last one in the top divison and one to forget.
I'm not sure if I'll ever get any of these cup competitions right. It is very difficult to predict what happens in the cup competitions, but I'll give it a try anyway:
FA Cup - It will be a clash between Man City and Liverpool, but no! City won't do a domestic double. Liverpool will lift another trophy. The oldest cup competition trpohy this time.
League Cup - I will give it to Spurs. Just so they have at least something to cheer about. Even though it's the shittiest cup they can win, at least one trophy for their dusty empty cabinet.
Community Chield - It is impossible that it's only one game, yet still I get it wrong every time. Let's see if I can change the faith or I'll continue to be a looser. I'm going for Manchester City. Both leage and FA Cup winners, the stats don't lie. It has to be the Sky-Blues, doesn't it?
Champions League:
Manchester City - I said it last year and I'm going to say it again. Because I can really really see them doing this. And I sort of wish they'd go and win it. Just to experience the feeling. They've won pretty much everything else, so why not give it to them!
Liverpool - I say they'll be playing the final for the third consecutive year and another English final again. But unlike Fa Cup, the trophy will go to City. This way they both come out with something. And to be fair, they've done it 6 times now and I'm already sick of it. Just give it to City.
Chelsea - They'll make it out of the group in the second spot, but that's as far as they'll go. Fans won't see much Champions League excitement at the Bridge next season.
Spurs - I can see them going all the way to semis, where according to my prediction will be knocked out either by Liverpool or a sweet revenge by City. Either way they're not going to like it. Or possibly they'll get knocked out in the previous round. I can't quite make my mind up, but I'm going for the semi-finals.
Europa League:
Arsenal - Poor Arsenal missed out on the Champions League again, but I imagine they feel in the Europa League like at home now. I believe they'll get out in the semi-final. Perhaps loosing to a team from the Champions League group. But what do I know.
Manchester United - I can see them making it all the way into the final if all I mentioned earlier will happen. And perhaps loosing to the same team that kicked out Arsenal. There's going to be a club that English will hate for some time, I reckon.
Wolves - I'm sorry but I can't see you getting out of the group, Wolves. Six games in the group and some qualification rounds will be enough European football for you for some time anyway, so enjoy while it lasts.
Championship promotion:
1. Derby County - After disappointing play-off final last time, they won't take that risk again. If Frankie stays at Derby I can easily see them winning the league, And I wouldn't mind. It would be nice to see the Rams in the Prem.
2. Leeds - Here we go again. I'm so happy that my prediction of them winning the play-offs didn't come true, but they were close. So I'm doing the same again. I'm going for the automatic promotion this time and I'm hoping I am wrong. After all, WE ALL HATE LEEDS SCUM!!!
Play-offs: Stoke City - I would love to see the Potteries back in the top flight. I quite miss them and I don't think they are a Championship side.
Fingers crossed! Bye next year and have a great season everyone!
1. MANCHESTER CITY
Well, I reckon they're going to do it again. A treble of titles. I just can't see anyone stopping them. Even if they sell half of their squad, they still will be a decent side. Pep is a magnificent manager and he will do everything to win it again. And I'm sure they will. I was thinking they were just a one season wonder last year. Well, I don't think so anymore. However it's not going to be one (or two) horse race this season. It will be much more closer affair and maybe even few teams will change at the throne before the citizens will settle up there.
2. LIVERPOOL
Scousers have been chasing the Premier League title ever since it begun and always failed. Something tells me that next year is NOT going to be their year. As always. But they will never learn. Yes, they have great players and they play brilliant football, but they just don't understand that while you have the Liverpool badge on your shirt, you will never be celebrating the Premier League title. You're cursed you motherfuckers! I cursed you! As did many many others.
And as I already mentioned, it's not goimng to be a 20 point gap again. They'll be lucky to be in Champions League spot.
3. CHELSEA
The transfer ban is only going to help the team. But this prediction is very hard for me to make. I still don't know if Hazard will stay (probably not), If Sarri will face the sack (probably yes) and if they won't let any big players go (probably not). But the ban will mean there will be no new players, therefore the teammates that already know each other are going to stay together and play the game they know. And nobody is going to have any big expectations of anyone like they had with Higuain. There will be no pressure on them and that's why I think they will fly through the league quite easily. Just look at Spurs. No signings and what a bunch great players they turned out to be.
4. MANCHESTER UNITED
The situation at the Old Trafford is a huge mess. And I believe Ole is the man to sort it out and he'll have to prove himself in the upcoming transfer window. It is only a matter of time until the Red Devils start playing like everybody once used to know them. They have great players and big potential, but a lot of the things are very wrong at the club. The only question is: Can Ole handle it? I believe in him enough for the Champions League spot.
5. TOTTENHAM
There is something about the new stadiums isn't it? Emirates, Olympic or many more are just a quick example. And I think the curse is going to be passed on to the White Hart Lane. After amazing last season where they managed to get to the Champions League final, I don't believe they will be playing it in the season after next, although I'm sure it would be pretty close. (maybe even goal difference). And God help them if I'm right. If that's the case, I'm sure a few players will be updating their CVs on totaljobs. (It perhaps doesn't work that way, but you know what I mean)
6. EVERTON
A big surprise of the season will come from Liverpool. Evertonians will celebrate quite a succesful season. And no wonder why. They have a team full of superstars and if they'll continue to splash their money like they do, I'm sure the'll become new Spurs and soon we'll be talking about the big 7 or big 8. Europa League spot for them as far as I'm concerned.
7. ARSENAL
Living literally on their front porch I can see so many wrong things with this club. Their fans still live in 2004 invicibles season. But instead of Therry Henry, Patrick Viera and Denis Bergkamp, they are now watching Xahka, Elneny and Monreal. And then they wonder what's happening to their beloved. Emery is facing a terrible season and possibly his last at Emirates. It's going downhill with Arsenal and I don't see any stop to it.
8. SHEFFIELD UNITED
I am possibly wrong with this one. It is very likely that the Blades will finish in the Champions league spot or even winning the fucking thing. WTF??? you might say. But let's talk in a year's time. You'll just wait and see. Without a doubt the most underrated bunch in all fotball leagues. From Billy Sharp through Alan Knill to Carl Hopwood - the kitman.
9. CRYSTAL PALACE
I don't think the fact that Place will finish in the top half of the table will be the most satysfying factor in the Eagles' season. But let's not jump ahead. You'll see further in my predictions. Nevertheless the fans at Selhurst park will get their money worth for their season tickets. It's going to be a pleasant ride for them.
10. WATFORD
OK! So after two years of me predicting them to go down, I finally learned my lession. Watford are a decent Premier League club. However if anything happens and they'll go down, I'm never doing this again!!!
11. BOURNEMOUTH
Good old Bournemouth. What more could they wish for. A regular Premier League side was the furtherst thing from their imagination few years back. But Eddie Howe put this south coast team in the most prestigious league of them all, and made them feel like at home. Let's be honest, they're not going to be challenging City or Liverpool, so this is the best they can wish for.
12. WEST HAM
How this team is still in the top flight is beyond me. The fans are unhappy, the stadium is horrendous, and all of the players could do better. But after all they still manage to get results. Somehow. Whatever happens next season, it's time for revange from Sheffield United. It is going to be a heated meeting between those two. Well, maybe I'm wrong and Sheffield will relegate them in the last game of the season? Well, you know, it's football. And we heard some incredible tales over the years so never say never.
13. WOLVERHAMTON
This wonder team has done incredibly well last season (and season before that) so I'm sure they will continue in this fashion. However the Europa League is going to wear the players out and they won't be as much of a threat to other teams as they used to be. Still, there won't be any big worries about the relegation though.
14. NORWICH
The canaries had done well in past 10 months. But I don't see them shine in the Premier League. It will be a tough place to visit, but some teams will find their way past them. It's the away record they're going to suffer from. Maybe I'm going too much into detail now, but I don't see this as a one-year trip for them. They'll be safe before May.
15. LEICESTER
The one year wonder team is back to its normal and that means bottom part of the table. It is nice of Jamie Vardy to stick around the club that took him where he is now, but I think he's wasting his talent. He doesn't have much more years to play and maybe trying something new would be best for him. But I don't think it would happen and he'll keep the decency of Leicester for a few more years. Of course Leicester are not a one-man-club, but he plays a major role. The same could be said about Kasper Schmeichel, but he's just a young lad and will move on after a few years. But to be quite honest I give Leicester just a few more seasons in the Prem.
16. NEWCASTLE
Mike Ashley selling the club is the best thing Newcastle fans heard since Alan Sheerer got a new car. The club will transform in major style, but all that takes some time and therefore I don't believe next season will be the one when they will start to be one of the top teams in the Premier League again. Not just yet.
17. ASTON VILLA
The new promoted team are going to dodge the bullet. Almost relegated, but saved in the end. Something tells me they might spend some time at the very bottom, but somehow they'll climb back up. I like Villa and hope they'll stay up. Well, apart form John Terry. I hope he'll break his leg and retire!
18. BURNLEY
Sean Dyche has done a magnificent job at the small town of Burnley, but his time has come. He will go down with the team from Turf Moor. A sad day for them and their fans, but they will go down proud. Last season it was a European football for them, the next one will be a trip to Luton.
19. SOUTHAMPTON
I am pretty confident that Southampton will go down. They weren't anything special this season and if it wasn't for Danny Ings, I think they might as well be playing in the Championship from August. I'm sorry but down you go!
20. BRIGHTON
And last but not least...actuallty yes. Last and least, it's Brighton. They've done their bit in the Premier League and now it's time to go back where they came from. It will be a nightmare season for the Hoves. The last one in the top divison and one to forget.
I'm not sure if I'll ever get any of these cup competitions right. It is very difficult to predict what happens in the cup competitions, but I'll give it a try anyway:
FA Cup - It will be a clash between Man City and Liverpool, but no! City won't do a domestic double. Liverpool will lift another trophy. The oldest cup competition trpohy this time.
League Cup - I will give it to Spurs. Just so they have at least something to cheer about. Even though it's the shittiest cup they can win, at least one trophy for their dusty empty cabinet.
Community Chield - It is impossible that it's only one game, yet still I get it wrong every time. Let's see if I can change the faith or I'll continue to be a looser. I'm going for Manchester City. Both leage and FA Cup winners, the stats don't lie. It has to be the Sky-Blues, doesn't it?
Champions League:
Manchester City - I said it last year and I'm going to say it again. Because I can really really see them doing this. And I sort of wish they'd go and win it. Just to experience the feeling. They've won pretty much everything else, so why not give it to them!
Liverpool - I say they'll be playing the final for the third consecutive year and another English final again. But unlike Fa Cup, the trophy will go to City. This way they both come out with something. And to be fair, they've done it 6 times now and I'm already sick of it. Just give it to City.
Chelsea - They'll make it out of the group in the second spot, but that's as far as they'll go. Fans won't see much Champions League excitement at the Bridge next season.
Spurs - I can see them going all the way to semis, where according to my prediction will be knocked out either by Liverpool or a sweet revenge by City. Either way they're not going to like it. Or possibly they'll get knocked out in the previous round. I can't quite make my mind up, but I'm going for the semi-finals.
Europa League:
Arsenal - Poor Arsenal missed out on the Champions League again, but I imagine they feel in the Europa League like at home now. I believe they'll get out in the semi-final. Perhaps loosing to a team from the Champions League group. But what do I know.
Manchester United - I can see them making it all the way into the final if all I mentioned earlier will happen. And perhaps loosing to the same team that kicked out Arsenal. There's going to be a club that English will hate for some time, I reckon.
Wolves - I'm sorry but I can't see you getting out of the group, Wolves. Six games in the group and some qualification rounds will be enough European football for you for some time anyway, so enjoy while it lasts.
Championship promotion:
1. Derby County - After disappointing play-off final last time, they won't take that risk again. If Frankie stays at Derby I can easily see them winning the league, And I wouldn't mind. It would be nice to see the Rams in the Prem.
2. Leeds - Here we go again. I'm so happy that my prediction of them winning the play-offs didn't come true, but they were close. So I'm doing the same again. I'm going for the automatic promotion this time and I'm hoping I am wrong. After all, WE ALL HATE LEEDS SCUM!!!
Play-offs: Stoke City - I would love to see the Potteries back in the top flight. I quite miss them and I don't think they are a Championship side.
CHAMPIONSHIP | LEAGUE ONE | LEAGUE TWO | ||
1. Derby County | 1. Portsmouth | 1. Plymouth | ||
2. Leeds United | 2. Coventry | 2. Oldham | ||
3. Bristol City | 3. Sunderland | 3. Exeter | ||
4. Fulham | 4. Peterborough | 4. Northampton | ||
5. Stoke City | 5. Lincoln | 5. Bradford | ||
6. M'borough | 6. Bolton | 6. Swindon | ||
7. Wigan Athletic | 7. Rochdale | 7. Scuntorphe | ||
8. Swansea | 8. Wycombe | 8. Mansfield | ||
9. Luton | 9. Oxford | 9. Newport | ||
10. Cardiff | 10. Bury | 10. Stevenage | ||
11. Hull City | 11. Ipswich | 11. Walsall | ||
12. Huddersfield | 12. Blackpool | 12. Leyton Orient | ||
13. WBA | 13. Oxford | 13. Colchester | ||
14. Forest | 14. Bristol Rovers | 14. Grimsby | ||
15. Brentford | 15. Doncaster | 15. Salford | ||
16. Preston | 16. Accrington | 16. Forest Green | ||
17. Charlton | 17. MK Dons | 17. Crewe | ||
18. Sheffield Wednesday | 18. Wimbledon | 18. Cambridge | ||
19. Birmingham | 19. Gillingham | 19. Morecambe | ||
20. Reading | 20. Tranmere | 20. Carlisle | ||
21. Blackburn | 21. Fleetwood | 21. Crawley | ||
22. QPR | 22. Shrewsbury | 22. Port Vale | ||
23. Barnsley | 23. Burton | 23. Cheltenham | ||
24. Millwall | 24. Southend | 24. Macclesfield |
Fingers crossed! Bye next year and have a great season everyone!