Premier League 2024/25 Predictions: Carragher and Neville’s Insights

As the Premier League kicks off its 2024/25 season, Sky Sports pundits Jamie Carragher and Gary Neville dive deep into their predictions, providing a wealth of insight on how the season might unfold. From title contenders to potential relegation battles, the duo offers a comprehensive take on the league’s outlook. Here’s what they had to say.

Title Contenders: Arsenal vs. Manchester City

When it comes to predicting the league winner, Carragher and Neville are once again split. “Man City,” Carragher confidently states, highlighting their consistent ability to reach the high 90s in points. He emphasizes that even with challenges, such as injuries or early season away games, City remains a formidable force: “No matter what, they’re going to get around 90 odd points.”

Neville, however, places his bet on Arsenal. “I feel they’ll do it,” he asserts, referencing Arsenal’s near-miss last season. He points out that Arsenal has improved year-on-year, getting closer to the top spot: “They’re getting nearer… and they’re so consistent.” This consistency, Neville believes, could finally push them over the line this season.

Top Four Battle: Chelsea, Spurs, and Liverpool in the Mix

The discussion doesn’t stop at the title race. Carragher and Neville also debate the top four contenders, with both pundits revising their initial predictions. Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur feature prominently, though not without reservations. Carragher remarks, “Chelsea have got a better squad than Spurs,” but questions whether they have the cohesion and connection needed to make a strong push.

Neville, on the other hand, raises doubts about Liverpool’s potential to reclaim a top-four spot, citing concerns over the toll of Jürgen Klopp’s tenure: “I think there’ll be some pain this season for Liverpool, and it could cost them.” Both pundits agree that Liverpool might struggle, making way for other clubs like Manchester United or even Aston Villa to stake their claim.

Relegation Predictions: Newcomers and Old Strugglers

Carragher and Neville are in agreement when it comes to predicting relegation. Neville opts for a clean sweep of the newly promoted clubs going down, while Carragher believes Nottingham Forest could face the drop instead of Ipswich Town. He reasons, “Ipswich’s enthusiasm for being in the Premier League could make all the difference.”

Neville expresses concerns about the growing gulf between the Premier League and the Championship, suggesting that promoted clubs are increasingly using their top-flight stint to rebuild finances rather than genuinely compete: “The gulf between the Championship and Premier League is getting bigger.”

Players and Managers to Watch

Carragher and Neville also highlight key players and managers to watch this season. Carragher tips Pedro Neto as a potential standout, despite his injury history, describing him as “one of the top players in the Premier League when he’s fit.” Neville, meanwhile, is eager to see how Arsenal’s new signing, Jurrien Timber, integrates into the squad after a lengthy injury layoff.

On the managerial front, Neville sees high stakes for several managers, particularly Erik ten Hag at Manchester United and Arne Slot at Liverpool. He notes, “It’s high stakes for the three of them in different ways,” emphasizing the pressure on these managers to deliver results this season.

Conclusion

The 2024/25 Premier League season promises to be another thrilling campaign, with fierce competition at both ends of the table. Carragher and Neville’s predictions provide a roadmap for what to expect, from the intense battle for the title to the struggle for survival. Whether Arsenal can finally dethrone Manchester City or if the usual suspects will dominate once again remains to be seen. One thing is certain: it’s going to be a season full of surprises.