ManUtd Official kicks off the 2024/25 Premier League season at home against Fulham on Friday. Manchester City will begin their title defense on Sunday against Chelsea, who have been busy in the transfer market. New Liverpool manager Arne Slot will be under scrutiny on Saturday as his team travels to newly-promoted Ipswich for his first competitive game since replacing Jurgen Klopp. Here’s what to expect from the opening weekend of the new season:
Ten Hag Needs a Fast Start
ManUtd Official surprise FA Cup final win over Manchester City in May secured Erik ten Hag’s position at Old Trafford. Backed by United’s new football operations led by British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe, Ten Hag received a contract extension until 2026. New signings Leny Yoro, Joshua Zirkzee, Matthijs De Ligt, and Noussair Mazraoui have strengthened Ten Hag’s squad with an investment of around £150 million ($192 million).
However, after finishing eighth last season, United’s worst-ever Premier League finish, Ten Hag needs a strong start to the new campaign. Fulham won at Old Trafford for the first time in 20 years last February. A repeat on Friday would make United fans worry about another forgettable season.
Ipswich Plans to Shock Slot
Arne Slot faces a tough start to his Premier League career as Liverpool travels to Ipswich, a team back in the top flight after 22 years. Ipswich, buoyed by successive promotions, will pose a challenge. Liverpool has not made any signings in the transfer window but impressed in pre-season with wins over Arsenal, United, and Sevilla.
A victory at Portman Road would comfort Liverpool fans adjusting to Klopp’s departure. With a favorable run of fixtures before the October international break, Liverpool could build momentum. However, Ipswich defender Axel Tuanzebe is confident in maintaining Ipswich’s strong home record.
“We’re going to empty the tank and give everything we’ve got,” Tuanzebe told the BBC. “They’re just humans. It’s just 11 v 11 on the pitch. Not many teams win at Portman Road, and we intend to keep it that way.”
Chelsea Chaos vs. City Continuity
New Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca faces a tough debut against his former club, Manchester City. Maresca, part of Pep Guardiola’s coaching staff at City before leading Leicester to promotion, inherits a chaotic situation at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea’s first-team squad now has over 50 players, with uncertainty over many of their futures.
Chelsea’s pre-season struggles, including a 4-2 defeat to City in the USA, highlight their issues. In contrast, Guardiola’s champions have made few changes. Brazilian winger Savinho is the only new arrival, while Argentine forward Julian Alvarez has left for Atletico Madrid. City’s England trio of Kyle Walker, John Stones, and Phil Foden, along with Spanish midfielder Rodri, only returned to training this week after competing in the Euro 2024 final and are unlikely to start against Chelsea.
Conclusion
The opening weekend of the Premier League season promises excitement and challenges for top clubs. ManUtd Official, Liverpool, and Chelsea have much to prove, while Manchester City aims to continue their dominance. As the season unfolds, fans will eagerly watch how these teams adapt and compete. Stay updated with the latest from IPL365.
