The new Premier League season is already shaping up to be one to remember. From the great goals, likeable managers, and passionate fans, the 2024/25 campaign has showcased why England’s top flight is one of the most revered leagues in the world and why Premier League betting remains so unpredictable in the early stages of the season.
Indeed, many teams have staked their claim for Premier League superiority throughout the early stages of the season, whereas others have struggled to adapt to new eras, new managers, or moves to new stadiums.
In this article, we delve into the first few weeks of the new Premier League season and assess who we think are the winners and losers from their opening games. Read on to find out more.
Winner: Liverpool
It’s no surprise we begin with one of this season’s title challengers, Liverpool. The departure of Jurgen Klopp in May left many people wondering what would be next for the Reds, with new manager Arne Slot perhaps an appointment left of field compared to the links with Xabi Alonso and Roberto De Zerbi.
Slot has begun his life at Anfield emphatically. Just one loss to Nottingham Forest has prevented an unbeaten start for the Dutchman, taking important points from Chelsea and Arsenal despite missing goalkeeper Alisson Becker. If Liverpool can continue to mount a title charge in the second half of the season, they could well be lifting the trophy come May.
Loser: Manchester United
Erik ten Hag became the first managerial casualty of the season at Manchester United. Despite winning two trophies in his first two years at Old Trafford, poor league form – which culminated in sitting 14th in the league following a loss to West Ham United – was enough for the United hierarchy to pull the trigger.
With the Red Devils linked with Sporting manager Ruben Amorim, it will be interesting to see what is needed to turn this side around. They lack fight and ultimately, despite so much money being spent on the side, the winning mentality to pick up points in the league. Attention may now turn to the cup competitions for a final saving grace.
Winner: Brentford
When Brentford sold Ivan Toney on the final day of the summer transfer window, many feared the worst for Thomas Frank’s side.
The England international had just about kept the Bees afloat with his goals before moving to Saudi Arabia, yet Brentford have started the season with four wins from their first nine games and, at the same point in the season, scored more goals than Liverpool and Arsenal.
The resurgence of Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa, who have been with the club since their initial promotion in 2021, have helped Brentford win games against the odds, and the duo have flown massively under the radar in west London.
Loser: Everton
Everton had finally looked to build some stability over the summer, having comfortably avoided relegation last season, even with a points deduction. However, this season must feel like déjà vu in the blue half of Merseyside.
The winning mentality Sean Dyche had instilled on the Toffees seems to have vanished, with Everton struggling to cope with the loss of Amadou Onana in midfield, while defensively, they have thrown away multiple leads, including capitulation on home soil against Bournemouth.
Dyche will do everything in his power to ensure that the final season at Goodison Park is not one that ends in embarrassment. But the reality of the situation is that the first campaign inside the new Bramley Moore Dock could be hosting Championship football if results don’t improve.
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