We are reaching the end of a pretty wild year in 2021, and as the year draws to a close, like millions of others around the world, we set resolutions for personal improvement in the year ahead. Whether you are looking to quit an old bad habit, or take up a new skill, everyone has the moment of self-evaluation and reflection, and I have no doubt the football world is any different.

So, as we begin to plan our own resolutions for the coming year, we figured we would try and predict (or possibly suggest) some traits to work on in 2022 for 5 Premier League clubs. If you agree, or disagree with any of our selections, head over to Twitter (@NextGoalWinBlog) and let us know what you think.

Enjoy, and have a great new year!

Newcastle – Use money wisely

Starting a budget is usually a great resolution, as a new year gives many a fresh start and outlook on their finances. Newcastle United don’t particularly need to budget themselves, given they are now one of the Worlds richest football clubs, however what they need to do is use their money wisely. We have seen with Manchester City in the past how an instant influx of cash is usually detrimental in the short-term, until a plan is fully established. Therefore, Newcastle will look hopefully to upgrade their club slowly and carefully, with Howe being given the job of bridging the gap between a relegation threatened side, to a European-place contender. With names like Trippier and Tarkowski, this seems to be the general idea, however the temptation to splash out on a ‘Robinho-esque’ signing will come in every so often. Therefore, they need to plan strategically and sensibly, possibly using a very large budget but overall just in a considered manner.

Norwich – Change old habits

Norwich are possibly more than any other club in history, looking to break their old bad habits, of yo-yo-ing through the leagues, and with their admittedly surprising decision to remove fan-favourite Farke in place of freshly out of work Dean Smith, they are showing some real determination to avoid the same expected fate that they have suffered in the past several years. Although the squad will no doubt need strengthening, their performances have improved, and they have adapted away from the consistent attacking style that works well in the Championship but not so profitable on-field in the top-flight. I am unsure if it will be enough to avoid the drop once again, and of all the resolutions this seems most unlikely, but stranger things have happened.

Liverpool (& Chelsea) – Take time to relax

In the past week or two, the football world has been crying out for a break, either as a winter break or Covid circuit-breaker. However, the league are reluctant and fans are desperate for football over the winter period, and as a result, two coaches in the Premier League will be desperate to take some time to relax. Jurgen Klopp and Thomas Tuchel have been very vocal in their dismay at the Premier League’s reluctance to take a break around Christmas, and with Covid adding to the injury and fatigue concerns, this is only set to heighten. Therefore, for both clubs, they will be looking to take some time to relax in 2022, which for many in the club will be near impossible, with the upcoming AFCON tournament, busy domestic schedule, European commitments and then of course the 2022 World Cup adding even more football to the busy winter period. No matter what, expect to see some pretty tired footballers in Qatar next winter.

Arsenal – Be more patient

Arsenal are not patient, it’s as simple as that. However, they have finally, for the first time in years got a plan in place with youth prospects shining and a young, determined manager being given full support. Therefore, in 2022, Arsenal need to gain the skill of patience, as this will allow them to prosper long-term. Currently, they are hitting a run of form that is showing the potential reward for giving the squad and manager extra time, however things won’t stay this cosy in the new year, and the form will drop no doubt. However, the easy thing will be to drop Arteta and these youngsters like a tonne of bricks, however this puts them back to square one. Instead, stick things out with Arteta, slowly climb the league as he and the squad gain experience, and slowly but surely things will return. They won’t be competing for league titles for a long time I’m afraid, but a return to the Champions League could be done by the end of the season. Just have a little patience.

Manchester United – Have a clear out

Manchester United need to declutter in January, it’s as simple as that. They have superstars unable to make the squad, and with a contract situation creeping in ahead of summer, it may well be now or never for cashing in. Obviously Rangnick hasn’t had too long to make cuts to the playing squad, however he has gotten to work on cutting ties with the majority of coaching staff, and has plenty of experience to know what to do with several big names. From Martial, Pogba, Lingard, Henderson, Bailly, Diallo, Van De Beek, big calls should be made. I don’t think many players should leave permanently (except the first 3 names on my list), however particularly with the younger talent they should be seeking loan moves or the prospect of football experience. With United dropping out of domestic cups quite early, they are losing opportunity for young players to gain valuable experience, and with only the Premier League, knockout Champions League and a tough FA Cup 3rd round on the horizon, the risk of rotation for many to get game-time is costly. Rangnick knows what he is doing, but some of the cupboards could do with a dusting for sure.