The Premier League is back and if there’s one thing we can guarantee, it’s that this season will serve up chaos, drama and at least a few moments that leave us questioning why we ever tried to make predictions in the first place. Still, that’s half the fun, isn’t it?

Here are our ten bold (and probably regrettable) predictions for the 2023/24 campaign.

Winners: Manchester City

It feels boring, but Pep Guardiola’s machine is still the strongest around. Even without Ilkay Gündogan and Riyad Mahrez, City have added Josko Gvardiol and, of course, still boast Erling Haaland up front. They’ll stutter here and there, but over 38 games no one can keep up with them. A fourth title in a row is incoming.

Top Four: City, Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester United

Arsenal have added Declan Rice and Kai Havertz, and their young squad looks set to push again. Liverpool’s midfield overhaul gives them a fresh look, while Erik ten Hag’s United continue to stabilise. Chelsea and Spurs? They’ll be in the conversation but a step short of consistency.

Relegated: Luton Town, Sheffield United, Wolves

Luton’s fairy-tale promotion is incredible, but the gap in quality might be too great. Sheffield United look weaker than two years ago, and Wolves, after losing key players and with uncertainty around Julen Lopetegui, feel like a club in decline.

Top Scorer: Erling Haaland

Yes, again. He’s a cheat code. Even if defenders have studied his movement for a year, the Norwegian’s power, pace and finishing are on another planet. Another 30+ goal season is almost inevitable.

Player of the Season: Martin Ødegaard

The Arsenal captain quietly pulled the strings last season and now, with Rice behind him, he should have even more freedom to dictate play. If the Gunners push City all the way again, Ødegaard could take home the prize.

Young Player of the Season: Bukayo Saka

Haaland will still technically be eligible, but let’s spread the love. Saka continues to develop into one of the league’s most consistent attackers, and this could be the year he really becomes Arsenal’s difference-maker in the biggest games.

Manager of the Season: Mikel Arteta

If Arsenal push City deep into the season again, Arteta deserves the plaudits. His tactical growth and the squad’s maturity suggest the Gunners are here to stay as genuine contenders.

1st Manager Sacked: Paul Heckingbottom (Sheffield United)

Sheffield United haven’t strengthened enough, and the Premier League can be ruthless. If results go badly early on, the board may act before Christmas.

Overachievers: Brighton & Hove Albion

They’ve lost Alexis Mac Allister and Moisés Caicedo talk lingers, but Roberto De Zerbi has turned Brighton into a possession-dominant, fearless side. Expect them to bloody the noses of the traditional top six again and maybe push into Europe once more.

Underachievers: Chelsea

Mauricio Pochettino is a top coach, but Chelsea still feel like a puzzle missing pieces. They’ve got talent, but too many unknowns, too much turnover, and not enough goals. A season of frustration seems likely.