Who Will Win the Premiership 2009

Manchester United were undoubtedly top of the pile last season, not only domestically but on the European front. With Ronaldo in scintillating form, they eventually saw off the valiant challenge of Chelsea, who pushed them all the way to the final day of the season. But ultimately, United proved to be too strong, taking their tally to a staggering 10 titles since the inception of the competition in 1992. The current crop of players are arguably the finest manager Alex Ferguson has had at his disposal in his twenty-two year reign. But who of the pretenders can make a strong claim as being genuine contenders this season? Will the 'Big Four' gallop further away, or can others shorten the gap?

Chelsea - The Main Rivals

Undoubtedly, Chelsea will offer huge resistance. With the financial clout of Roman Ambramovic and the fresh ideas of new head coach Luis Felipe Scolari, they are certain to freshen up their squad to challenge the champions head on. The current squad members will not forget the pain of losing both the title and the Champions League Final within the space of 10 days, and they will be more focused than ever to avenge those defeats.

Arsenal

Arsene Wenger's Arsenal started last season so promisingly, losing only once until Christmas, before a poor run saw them lose momentum and end the season trophyless. However, they have a young, talented squad that learn from their mistakes and, within the return of leg-break victim Eduardo, could prove to be an influential force. Wenger has spent well, purchasing potential in the likes of Aaron Ramsey and Samir Nasri, and if the Frenchman can continue with his total football ethos, it will eventually reap rewards. It just may not be this season.

Liverpool

Liverpool fans want nothing more than the Premiership title on Merseyside. Despite an excellent European record, Rafa Benitez has gained little ground on Manchester United domestically in his four seasons at the helm. The patience of the loyal Kop support may be tested if their challenge is not dramatically improved this term. They need to sign talent in the same category of current squad members Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres to be considered truly able to cope with the Champions on a consistent basis.

Outside the 'Big four'

'The Big Four', the collective term for Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool, are becoming more and more diffcult to infitrate. Spurs, as usual, have spent big this Summer in their never-ending quest to be amongst the elite. It's hard to consider them a realistic force after so many false dawns at White Hart Lane in the past, but Juande Ramos is an astute coach, and has had success at an underdog previously - he took Sevilla to back to back UEFA cups in 2006 and 2007. Everton finished fifth last season, but plans to move to a new stadium could place budget restrictions on manager David Moyes' ability to strengthen for the season ahead. Aston Villa are making progress under new American ownership, but they seem to be reluctant to authroise the levels of spending required to compete with the big boys. But there will be undoubted spending before the season begins - make sure to keep an eye on the Ins and Outs.

Despite all the to-ing and fro-ing amongst the challengers, Manchester United will be a tough act to beat, and if they manage to secure a happy,vibrant Christiano Ronaldo for another season, it's difficult to envisage anyone stopping them making it three titles in succession.

Premiership Title

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