2015/16 English Premier League - Preview
Putting an end to the wait of all football fans, the new season of the English Premier League gets started this weekend. This year the action begins a week earlier than usual as the year culminates in Euro 2016 action. Over the season, 20 teams will vie for honors over 38 games for each side.
Last year, the season ended with Chelsea annexing the title under Jose Mourinho. Manchester City, Arsenal and Manchester United finished in Champions League qualification places. The three teams that got relegated to the Championship were Queens Park Rangers (QPR), Burnley and Hull City.
These three sides will be replaced in the top tier by Bournemouth, Watford and Norwich. None of these will want to get back to the Championship immediately, so expect them to put a tough fight to stay away from relegation. And at the top end of the table, Liverpool, Tottenham and Southampton will try to topple the top four and move into Champions League qualification places.
Chelsea remains hot favorites to retain the title but their hopes rest high on the fitness of Diego Costa. The Spanish striker is out of the first game and Mourinho will hope that his troublesome hamstring will not flare often this year. At odds of $2.50 at CrownBet, they are bookie favorites too.
Arsene Wenger overcame one of his hoodoos by putting one past Mourinho in the Community Shield. He would love to erase the hurt of a decade by winning the Premier League. However, it won’t be easy and Wenger would hope that his side can mount a sustained title challenge. Odds of $4.75 at CrownBet are being put on the Gunners.
Manchester City are desperate to prove that their success is not a ‘flash in the pan’. Apart from improving their European credentials, the mandate is to annex the Premier League title. At the moment, though, Manuel Pellegrini looks mired in uncertainty to lead his squad to a title. Citizens are offered odds of $3.75 at CrownBet for the title win.
Manchester United is at crossroads as the club is still coming to terms with life beyond Sir Alex Ferguson. The summer signings should give them an edge, but only if the new players integrate quickly to the new environment and league. Red Devils are tipped to be winners at odds of $6.00 at CrownBet.
Away from the top four, Liverpool, Tottenham and Southampton will hope to sneak into the Champions League qualification mix. Not to be left without mentioning, all sides will hope to steer clear of relegation.
EPL football is fascinating to watch because fan loyalties transcend national boundaries. With the league boasting many world stars, EPL is definitely one of the most followed football leagues in the world. And the new season promises to be as enthralling as ever.
Take note: Any of the tips in this article are simply the author’s opinion, so bet at your own risk and always gamble responsibly. Also be sure to check out the Before You Bet Twitter Page for all our thoughts in the lead up to bets! Happy punting!
