The Premier League is back, and with it, a host of concerns and gaping holes in the squads of various teams. From Tottenham's attack to Manchester City's midfield, every club has its own set of challenges that could impact their season. Here's a deep dive into some of the most pressing issues, with a heavy dose of personal commentary and analysis.
Tottenham's Attack
Tottenham's attack has been a point of weakness for some time, and despite their impressive summer signings, the club hasn't made a single overtly attacking signing. This is surprising, given the need for a reliable, transformative goal source. In my opinion, the lack of an attacking presence is a significant concern, especially after Thomas Frank's departure. The club needs to address this issue soon, as the window is closing. Personally, I think that the club should have made a more aggressive move to sign a top-tier striker, as the current squad lacks the necessary firepower.
Manchester City's Midfield
Manchester City's midfield is a cause for concern, with the club relying on Elliot Anderson to replace the legendary Rodri. While Anderson is a talented player, he is no Rodri, and the club's decision to spend £116 million on him is a risky move. In my perspective, the club should have invested in a more experienced and proven midfielder, as the current squad lacks the necessary depth and quality. The club's kneejerk reaction to the Community Shield result is a clear indication of their current mindset, and I fear that they are setting themselves up for disappointment.
Manchester United's Defence
Manchester United's defence is another area of concern, with the club starting the season with the same defence they started with four years ago. This is a clear indication of a lack of improvement and a failure to address the club's defensive issues. In my opinion, the club should have invested in a more experienced and proven centre-back, as the current squad lacks the necessary quality and depth. The club's decision to bargain-hunt is a risky move, and I fear that Michael Carrick is being set up to fail with a creaking defence and a midfield still short of energy.
Liverpool's Fitness
Liverpool's fitness is a significant concern, with the club's players struggling to sustain the football Andoni Iraola wants to play for a full game. This is a pattern that has emerged over the past season, and it is a cause for concern. In my perspective, the club should have invested in a more experienced and proven squad, as the current squad lacks the necessary depth and quality. The club's reliance on young players is a risky move, and I fear that they are setting themselves up for disappointment.
Chelsea's Goalkeeper
Chelsea's decision to not bother with goalkeepers while spending all of their money on other positions is a clear indication of their modus operandi. In my opinion, the club should have invested in a more experienced and proven goalkeeper, as the current squad lacks the necessary quality and depth. The club's decision to rely on Robert Sanchez is a risky move, and I fear that they are setting themselves up for disappointment.
Aston Villa's Midfield
Aston Villa's midfield is another area of concern, with the club facing a number of injuries and a lack of depth. In my perspective, the club should have invested in a more experienced and proven midfielder, as the current squad lacks the necessary quality and depth. The club's decision to rely on young players is a risky move, and I fear that they are setting themselves up for disappointment.
Newcastle's Squad
Newcastle's squad is a cause for concern, with the club losing their manager and three of their best players. In my opinion, the club should have invested in a more experienced and proven squad, as the current squad lacks the necessary quality and depth. The club's decision to rely on young players is a risky move, and I fear that they are setting themselves up for disappointment.
Fulham's Manager
Fulham's decision to appoint Alvaro Arbeloa as their manager is a cause for concern, given his lack of experience and the club's recent stability. In my perspective, the club should have invested in a more experienced and proven manager, as the current squad lacks the necessary quality and depth. The club's decision to take a punt on Arbeloa is a risky move, and I fear that they are setting themselves up for disappointment.
Coventry's Sky Bet Vibe
Coventry's decision to promote themselves from the Championship to the Premier League is a cause for concern, given their lack of experience and depth. In my opinion, the club should have invested in a more experienced and proven squad, as the current squad lacks the necessary quality and depth. The club's decision to rely on young players is a risky move, and I fear that they are setting themselves up for disappointment.
Crystal Palace's Defence
Crystal Palace's defence is another area of concern, with the club losing Oliver Glasner and facing a number of injuries. In my perspective, the club should have invested in a more experienced and proven centre-back, as the current squad lacks the necessary quality and depth. The club's decision to rely on young players is a risky move, and I fear that they are setting themselves up for disappointment.
