After their successful run at the FIFA World Cup, England is all pumped up to support their local teams in the Premier League which is already underway, starting August 2018. A competition comprising of the top 20 clubs, it is passionately played between teams, with equal enthusiasm from supporters off the field.
Manchester City return as the reigning champions ready to defend their title as Manchester United look to add a 14th title win this year. The pure passion for the game and the religious following of the teams makes Premier League betting a high priority in every bookmaker and bettor’s calendar.
For some, it is a simple decision of betting on their favourite team, but for most punters, analysing and keenly following the clubs can make a considerable difference, helping them earn high profit margins and substantial gains. It might be early to pick a winner right now, but the following four are definitely among the top contenders this year:
Manchester City
Manchester City gets to be the frontrunner this year as the Premier League Champions of the previous season. Not only have they proven that they deserve the top spot with excellent gameplay, but the confidence of being five-time champions was evident when they defeated Arsenal 2-0 in their opening game. At an average 4/7 odds, they are obviously a favourite with the bookmakers right now.
Liverpool
Finishing 4th last season, Liverpool have been sparing no expense to get the right team playing for the League. Goalkeeping was a big issue for the team last season and keeping that in mind one of their significant buys this year has been the Brazilian goalkeeper Allison. With Virgil van Dijk being recruited among others, Liverpool has managed to sail through their first two games this season. At 10/3 odds they remain the second most favoured team to win, but the real test is when they play Tottenham and Chelsea in the coming weeks.
Chelsea
Aiming at their seventh title, Chelsea have been somewhat shaky over the last few months. Even though they won the FA Cup, coming in 5th in the last Premier League led to the replacement of Antonio Conte with Maurizio Sarri. Still preferred by the bookmakers at 1/12 odds, if the first two games are any indication, the change has been excellent as Chelsea defeated Huddersfield and Arsenal without much effort. Now, they face Newcastle in the next match, and a win in that match will only add to their growing determination.
Tottenham
Tottenham have steadily been making waves, focusing on tactics and strategy to pose as strong candidates for winning the Premier League. Having won their first two games, they stand comfortably with odds of 1/16 while preparing to meet old rivals Manchester United next. Earlier this year they proved everyone wrong as they beat Man United, only to succumb in the FA Cup semi-finals. Both teams have a lot to prove, making this a challenging match. So is the nature of the game that fortunes can turn in seconds. While the top contenders are usually a safe bet, everyone loves it when an underdog creates a major upset. It’s always a good plan to keep a steady watch not only on the overall performance of the team but also individual key players before making your final betting decision.