2023/24 season predictions

The start of the 2023/24 Premier League season is within touching distance, which can only mean one thing – it’s prediction time.

League position – 2nd

JUST HEAR ME OUT. Top 4 is a given – the fact that I and so many Arsenal fans have a Top 4 finish as a bare minimum shows how far we have come in the past few years.

Arsenal have always struggled to play in multiple competitions. This isn’t the Europa League this season – it’s the Champions League. We can’t play a side consisting of Holding, Elneny, Marquinhos and Fabio Vieira in every game, and our league form will suffer. The squad’s depth will really be tested and it will take time to adjust, meaning we will miss out on the title.

Champions League finish – QF

I spent a lot of time trying to figure out whether we would make the quarter finals or get eliminated in the Round of 16. I’ve come to the following conclusions:

The only thing that would sign a Round of 16 exit is drawing a tough opponent, like a Bayern Munich or a Real Madrid. While this is a very real possibility, it is equally possible that we top our group and draw an easier opponent. If we can get through them, then we will face the top dogs in Europe – I don’t think we are up to that level yet.

The quality squad depth in the team now was a big reason for our predicted success. Signings like Rice, Havertz and Timber to add to a team that already has quality in Partey, Odegaard, Trossard and Ben White means that, even with a few injuries, Arteta will still be able to put out a strong squad.

Most Valuable Player – William Saliba

It might be a surprise to not be seeing the likes of Saka, Odegaard, Martinelli or Jesus in this section. Despite their enormous contributions last season, I haven’t chosen any of them – here’s why.

‘You don’t realise what you have until it’s gone’, and William Saliba’s absence hit us like a truck. When the Frenchman picked up a back injury against Sporting that would rule him out until the end of the season, it was the start of the end. There are so many terrific players in the squad now, yet the 22-year-old is still my MVP.

Most Improved Player – Emile Smith-Rowe

Coming off the back of a brilliant 2021/22 season, Smith-Rowe couldn’t seem to get the better of injuries last season. He barely featured throughout the campaign, yet after playing a pivotal role in the England U21’s side that one the Euros he is back and ready to go.

Whether he plays on the wing or in the midfield, he will remind everyone of what he can do and give Arteta plenty to think about come selection time.

Flop of the season – Kieran Tierney

KT was my favourite Gooner for so long, but it looks like his time is coming to an end. He was exposed when he came on in the Community Shield and I fear that his playing style doesn’t suit Arteta’s system anymore. I’d love to see him fight his way back into the team but I just don’t see it happening.

One to watch – Kai Havertz

£65m is a big price tag for someone who has struggled in the Premier League. Havertz’s form had been hard to come by at Chelsea, no matter where he was played. You get the feeling now, however, that if Arsenal are to really prosper in the 2023/24 season, it will be Kai Havertz that will take them to the next level. After all, £65m will be a remarkable loss of money and resources if he can’t stand up to the role.

Breakout season – Jurrien Timber

I’ve loved everything I’ve seen from him so far. Whether he plays at LB, RB or even CB throughout the season it seems as if he will slot into the Arsenal system perfectly. He shows great calmness on the ball, is a rugged defender and completes all aspects of the game to a high standard. Don’t be surprised if he cements himself as a starter throughout the season.

So, these are my predictions, let me know what you think! Comment down below.