As the transfer window draws to a close and the pre-season is in full flow, many have suggested that Arsenal and Liverpool have had the best of times in the summer transfer window so far. Some have even gone to the extent and have made predictions that the duo should finish in the top four of the Premier League this time.
However, we all know that it is not the case ever and what happens on the pitch is all that matters at the end. How often have we seen a team managed by Wenger in the past dominate pre-season and end up empty handed. The Paris Saint-Germain game, who saw the Gunners win 5-1, is one such meaningless win which can probably boost the morale, but does not suggest that they are championship material still.
Emery has just taken over a team that needs to be consistent with the level of their performances, not just secure big wins on one night and disappear on the others. One advantage that they do have is that they have now more or less filled the voids in their squad and the lack of Champions League football will keep them focused.
On the other hand, the Merseyside outfit has been the best team in the transfer market so far, as they have planned out everything systematically and have done things right. The board must feel that they can back Klopp now to deliver, as he guided them to the Champions League final in the previous campaign.
They have brought in new players to Anfield, who are some of the most-wanted young talents and can be an asset to the team in the long run. Also, they have now a solid goalkeeper in the form of Alisson, who can be their rock in front of goal.
However, though these two teams (Arsenal and Liverpool) have made the right purchases, the season is not determined by these buys or pre-season wins. There are many factors that impact the campaign and though Manchester City does not look that solid this time around, there are various other clubs who will also be in contention and it will be a tough season for sure.
The two clubs will be top contenders, but to term them as “imaginary champs” already, would be rather delusional. Only time will tell whether the signings can make a real difference or not, or is it more of the same from the past.
Both managers will be looking to win their first title with their respective clubs, though Klopp has lost three finals already. This is one place where Arsenal does have a minor advantage. It will be interesting to see if the players are actually worth the money that has been spent on them and all the hype surrounding their transfers.
In other news, Riyad Mahrez has picked up an injury and had to replaced in the game against Bayern Munich, which his team was losing 2-0 when he was substituted. It seems that the injury is not a severe one and he should be fit soon, though nothing has been confirmed yet and only time will tell. If he is out for quite some time, this will be a huge blow to Pep Guardiola’s plans.
