The 2010/11 Premiership season will commence this weekend and in my view there are only 2 sides that are capable of lifting the title next May; (it will shock you to know) Chelsea and Manchester United. While competition for the Champions League places is intensifying the 2 established sides are too far ahead at the moment for anyone to catch them.
Chelsea as the reigning Champions will be the side that everyone wants to beat and Ancelotti will need to improve their consistency if they are to triumph again. They have added Benayoun at the expense of Joe Cole which is a big loss in my opinion, whilst the imminent arrival of Ramires will certainly strengthen their midfield after Ballack’s exit over the summer. The champions took maximum points from their games against their nearest rivals but dropped silly points against sides they should be beating convincingly. The easy excuse it to blame it on Ancelotti’s lack of experience in the league but it was actually the result of poor performances. The return of Essien in midfield is massive for them and if he can stay fit they have a very good chance of retaining their title.
It has been a quiet summer at Old Trafford in terms of signings. There has been no marquee signing for the 2nd season in a row which indicates that Ferguson’s spending power has significantly decreased. He has added Smalling from Fulham who looked poor last year but will no doubt grow into his role as he becomes more experienced. His best bit of business was picking up Hernandez from Guadalajara, a young striker who has pace and a great eye for goal; although he may not figure too prominently at the start of the season Chicharito is certainly one to watch.
Both these teams have the ability and tactical attributes to win the league but it is the ‘know how’ they possess that continues to separate them from the rest.
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