As the Premier League kicks off its 2023-24 season on Friday, several intriguing storylines will unfold throughout the campaign.
Stopping Manchester City’s Dominance:
Manchester City has won the Premier League title four consecutive times, and they are the heavy favorites to extend their reign. However, Arsenal, who pushed City to the limit last season, looks like the most capable challenger. Liverpool, under new manager Arne Slot, could also be in the mix, but they will need to show more consistency than they did last season.
Improved VAR?
Video Assistant Referee (VAR) has been a controversial topic in the Premier League since its introduction in 2017. This season, a new account on X, formerly Twitter, will provide live refereeing and VAR clarifications and explainers for all matches. Semi-automated offside technology will also be used for the first time, although not until later in the season. The Premier League claims that the number of correct decisions in matches has increased to 96%, up from 82% before VAR.
Goal-Scoring Extravaganza:
Last season, Premier League teams scored a record 1,246 goals, a staggering 162 more than the previous most for a single campaign. Increased amounts of stoppage time, more adventurous managers, and VAR interventions were credited as some of the reasons behind the soaring numbers of goals. It remains to be seen if this trend will continue this season.
A Long and Grueling Season:
For some teams, this could be the longest club season ever. Manchester City, for example, could play until July 13 next year in the final of FIFA’s expanded and revamped Club World Cup. This will put a strain on players and managers alike, and it could lead to burnout and injuries.
More Points Deductions?
Everton and Nottingham Forest were hit with points deductions last season for overspending, forcing all clubs in the league to take a closer look at their finances. Leicester, one of the three promoted teams, is facing a points deduction for breaching spending rules during their previous stay in the Premier League. It remains to be seen if other teams have learned their lesson.
Farewells:
Pep Guardiola is entering his ninth year at Manchester City, and he will have to decide at some point this season whether his stay at the club will extend to a decade. Similarly, this might mark Kevin De Bruyne’s final season at City, while Liverpool stars Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk are in the final years of their contracts at Anfield. Everton, meanwhile, is preparing for its last season playing at Goodison Park before moving to a new stadium.
