Goldbridge backs Manchester City for EPL title in surprise forecast

Mark Goldbridge has placed Manchester City first in his Premier League prediction for the new season, despite the club entering a new era without Pep Guardiola. Arsenal are expected to finish second, while Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea complete his projected top five.

The forecast is notable because Goldbridge is a public Manchester United supporter. His personal preference is for Arsenal to win the title, but he does not believe that will happen. Instead, he has chosen City to retain the league’s top position in his annual season predictions.

City will start the campaign without Guardiola for the first time in 10 years. The former manager’s departure has created a major change at the club, but Goldbridge believes the squad left behind remains strong enough to challenge for the championship.

He also expects Enzo Maresca, Guardiola’s replacement, to strengthen the team with further additions. Goldbridge pointed to the quality available in the squad, including Phil Foden, Erling Haaland and Doku, while also naming Elliott Anderson, Gueye and O’Reilly among the players connected with his assessment of City’s options.

His predicted order gives Arsenal the runners-up position, followed by Manchester United in third. Liverpool are forecast to finish fourth and Chelsea fifth. The selection therefore places all five clubs among the leading contenders, with City remaining Goldbridge’s choice to finish above them even as the club moves beyond the Guardiola era.