Predictions for the upcoming Premier League season have been made by former Arsenal and England player, Paul Merson. Merson believes that Chelsea, under new manager Enzo Maresca, will secure a top-four finish after their strong end to last season. Despite finishing in eighth place last season, Merson also expects Manchester United to challenge for a Champions League spot. However, Merson advises Tottenham to focus on winning a trophy rather than aiming for a top-four finish due to the increasing competition in the league.
Merson commends Tottenham’s performance in Ange Postecoglou’s first season as manager, especially considering the absence of star striker Harry Kane. The team has shown improvement in their style of play and entertainment value. However, Merson raises concerns about their defensive vulnerabilities and inconsistent performances against weaker teams. He suggests that if Tottenham continues to struggle away from home and suffer heavy defeats, the fans may become disillusioned.
Merson emphasizes the importance of winning trophies for fans rather than solely focusing on securing a top-four finish. He believes that many teams that qualify for the Champions League do not have a realistic chance of winning the competition and are motivated by financial gains. Therefore, Merson suggests that Tottenham should aim to win the League Cup or another domestic trophy to bring joy to their fans.
Overall, Merson’s predictions and insights provide an interesting perspective on the upcoming Premier League season. While he expects Chelsea and Manchester United to improve their positions in the league, he advises Tottenham to prioritize winning a trophy. His analysis highlights the importance of fan satisfaction and the need for teams to balance their ambitions with realistic expectations.