It seems that, barring some unseen catastrophe, Manchester City will be the Premier League champions this season, most likely with a record points tally too. But, rather than it being something of a damp squib that the title has been wrapped up so early, the race to finish in the Top 4 and secure a Champions League place makes the final few months of the Premier League as exciting as ever.
Below is a look at the main contenders for the Top 4 in the Premier League, taking into consideration their current odds with Bet365, important fixtures and predicted finishing places. If you are going to bet on the Premier League Top 4, or other sports, be sure to check out the latest available free bet offers for UK punters before you do. By the way, if you feel a Top 4 place can still be secured by a team outside of the ‘Big 6’, you can get odds of 200/1 on Leicester and Burnley.
Manchester United:
Current Position: 2nd
Odds of Top 4: 3/10
In most other seasons, Man Utd would be challenging for the title. However, such is the dominance of bitter rivals Man City, plenty of criticism surrounds Jose Mourinho and his team. They have a knack of getting the job done though and look nailed on to bag a Champions League spot.
Important fixtures: Chelsea (H) 25th February, Liverpool (H) 10th March, Man City (A) 7TH April.
Prediction: 3rd
Chelsea:
Current Position: 3rd
Odds of Top 4: 1/5
After a stuttering start to the season, Chelsea have really hit top form. Although last season’s champions didn’t make the challenge they were predicated to make, they are nevertheless a class act and should finish the season strongly. A few summer signings may be needed if they are to haul in Man City next year though.
Important fixtures: Man Utd (A) 25th February, Man City (A) 3rd March, Liverpool (H) 5th May.
Prediction: 2nd
Liverpool:
Current Position: 4th
Odds of Top 4: 4/11
When on form, Liverpool are arguably the most exciting team in the Premier League. The ‘Fab 4’ of Salah, Coutinho, Firmino and Mane have destroyed defences all over Europe this season. Some questions remain over defence, but the signing of Virgil Van Dijk should offer some stability. Champions League commitments could stretch a small squad, but they should make it to the Top 4.
Important fixtures: Spurs (H) 4th February, Man Utd (A) 10th March, Chelsea (A) 5th May.
Prediction: 4th
Tottenham Hotspur:
Current Position: 5th
Odds of Top 4: 1/1
It’s difficult to judge Spurs’ season as a failure, as they simply do not have the resources of other members of the ‘Big 6’. Harry Kane has once again proved himself as one of the best strikers in the world, but they probably rely a little too much on him. Like Liverpool, balancing the demands of the Champions League could have a big impact on their final Premier League position.
Important fixtures: Liverpool (A) 4th February, Arsenal (H) 10th February, Man City (H) 10th April.
Prediction: 5th
Arsenal:
Current Position: 6th
Odds of Top 4: 3/1
Arsenal fans are just getting used to a first season outside of the Champions League and it looks like it might be the same next year. Inconsistent defending has cost them points all season andthey look like a side lacking identity. Their best route back to Champions League may lie in winning the 2018 Europa League.
Important fixtures: Spurs (A) 10th February, Man City (H) 25th February, Man Utd (A) 28th April.
Prediction: 6th
Tags: Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, Premier League, Top 4, Tottenham Hotspur