The Top 5 Battle for the EPL - Who Will Prevail?

Just a stone's throw away from Spurs’ home ground, Arsenal seeks to settle a score with fate. Mikel Arteta’s electrifyingly sharp Gunners are a force to be reckoned with in the 23/24 season, following the disappointment issued to the London side after failing to secure the league title last season. As the dust has seemingly settled in relation to their star summer signing Declan Rice, the other side of luck remains unfaithful to injured Jurrien Timber and an underperforming Kai Havertz. However, Arsenal’s depth in the upper third of the pitch provides a clinical support system sure fire to massively boost their chances of securing a Top 5 position, and quite comfortably. 

However, the Gunners are not the only red army seeking a conquest this season. Much further north of London, Liverpool is back and in glorious fashion. Jurgen Klopp’s revived Merseyside giants have turned the tides following a lackluster 22/23 campaign. Prior to the summer transfer window, it became evidently clear to Liverpool fans and management that investment was sorely needed into the midfield regiment, particularly following the departure of Jordan Henderson and Fabinho to Saudi Arabia, whose greatly beneficial transfer funds provided a massive help to landing key targets such as Alexis Mac Allister, Dominick Szoboszlai, Ryan Gravenberchand Wataru Endo. The ‘reborn’ midfield packs a punch and has aided The Reds accordingly. In the battle for Top 5, Liverpool is a force to be reckoned with. 

Not much needs to be said for long-term league dominators Manchester City, whose resume speaks for itself. Pep Guardiola’s European champions remain favorites to not only secure Top 5, but to win the league. Coming off the back of their most tremendous season yet, which saw the Mancunians win their first treble, the title holders look just as menacing as ever. With record breaker Erling Haaland not showing any signs of slowing down, the introduction of Mateo Kovacic, Jeremy Doku and Josko Gvardiol only add fuel to the ever-growing fire that is Manchester City. Not only is the Top 5, at this current point in history, a given for Guardiola’s side, but the war for the title heavily leans in their favor. 

Currently sitting comfortably in 5th place and holding the line, Unai Emery’s brand-new Aston Villa show huge signs of promise. After a semi-shaky beginning to their campaign, footing has finally been found for The Lions. Attacking through the middle and utilising their promising midfield, Emery’s squad may have potential to display a David vs Goliath scenario, should they continue to remain in form. While not a guarantee for a Top 5 finish, the drive and heart are certainly there, should the ambition match it.