Premier League 2023/24: Club-by-Club Review
Premier League 2023/24: Club-by-Club Review
Declan Rice and Kai Havertz of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Everton FC at Emirates Stadium on May 19, 2024 in London, England.(Image-Getty)
Arsenal
Arsenal's season started with questions about their resilience after a 2-1 loss to 10-man Fulham. However, they responded with a stellar campaign, setting a club record of 28 Premier League wins. Despite finishing two points behind Manchester City, Arsenal's 89-point tally would have secured the title in many past seasons. Their quarter-final exit in the UEFA Champions League to Bayern Munich was a minor setback in an otherwise triumphant year.
Aston Villa
Unai Emery transformed Aston Villa from relegation candidates to a top-four team. Despite a 5-1 opening day defeat to Newcastle and a relentless injury crisis, Villa thrived, particularly with Ollie Watkins' 32 goal contributions and John McGinn's leadership. Their semi-final loss in the UEFA Europa Conference League was the only blemish in a remarkable season.
AFC Bournemouth
Replacing Gary O'Neil with Andoni Iraola seemed risky, but after a tough start, Bournemouth soared, earning 45 points from 26 matches between October and April. Iraola's fast-paced style paid off, especially with Dominic Solanke's 19 goals. Bournemouth set a club-record 48 points in the Premier League, a notable achievement despite injuries to key signings.
Brentford
Brentford's season was a significant decline from ninth to 16th place. Injuries to key players like Kevin Schade and a loss of defensive solidity contributed to their drop. Despite some bright performances, Brentford's inability to hold leads resulted in a competition-high 30 points lost from winning positions.
Brighton & Hove Albion
Brighton's season ended poorly with only one win in their final 10 matches, but considering their low wage bill and key player departures, their 11th-place finish was commendable. Their European campaign, highlighted by wins over Ajax, added to the club's achievements.
Burnley
Vincent Kompany's Burnley struggled with their expansive style, finishing well short of safety. Despite a late-season improvement, they never fully adapted to Premier League demands, reflecting poorly on their tactical strategy and recruitment.
Chelsea
Chelsea's metrics showed top-four performance potential, yet they finished five points behind the Champions League spots. Their young squad struggled with consistency, leading to Mauricio Pochettino's unexpected departure. Despite the setbacks, Chelsea's goal-scoring was a positive, hinting at potential under new leadership.
Crystal Palace
Oliver Glasner's late-season impact lifted Crystal Palace from relegation threats to a joint-best points tally of 49. Benefiting from the return of key players, Palace's transformation under Glasner left fans optimistic about the future.
Everton
Sean Dyche's defensive organization ensured Everton's safety despite off-field issues. Their strong defensive record contrasted with scoring struggles, highlighting areas for improvement. Without a points deduction, they would have finished comfortably mid-table.
Fulham
Marco Silva's Fulham navigated a challenging season, finishing 13th with 47 points despite key player losses. Joao Palhinha's standout performances and a solid mid-table finish marked a successful campaign.
Liverpool
Liverpool's transitional season under Jurgen Klopp was marked by departures and new signings. Despite initial doubts, they remained in title contention until April. Klopp's announcement of his departure impacted their performance, but a third-place finish provided a strong foundation for his successor, Arne Slot.
Luton Town
Luton's competitive spirit was undone by injuries, notably to captain Tom Lockyer. Their combative style kept them close to safety, but defensive issues against relegation rivals sealed their fate.
Manchester City
Despite a shaky start, Manchester City finished the season with an 18-match unbeaten run. Pep Guardiola's tactical innovations and consistent performances led to their fourth consecutive title, cementing their status as one of the greatest Premier League teams.
Manchester United
Erik ten Hag's second season at Manchester United ended disappointingly with an eighth-place finish, their worst in Premier League history. Despite injuries and tactical collapses, bright spots included Bruno Fernandes' performances and emerging talent Kobbie Mainoo.
Newcastle United
Newcastle's seventh-place finish was a commendable follow-up to their top-four finish in 2022/23. Despite missing out on Europe, memorable wins and high goal-scoring highlighted their entertaining season under Eddie Howe.
Nottingham Forest
Nottingham Forest achieved their primary goal of safety but narrowly avoided relegation. Chris Wood's 14 goals and improvements under Nuno Espirito Santo provided hope for a less stressful next season.
Sheffield United
Sheffield United endured a dismal season, managing only 16 points and setting negative records in various metrics. Despite early managerial changes, the squad's lack of depth and quality doomed their campaign.
Tottenham Hotspur
Ange Postecoglou's Spurs started strongly but faded, finishing fifth. Their entertaining style brought highs and lows, with defensive frailties needing address in the next season.
West Ham United
David Moyes' departure was timely after a mixed season. Despite strong attacking options, defensive weaknesses led to a ninth-place finish. Their European run was a highlight, but consistency was lacking.
Wolverhampton Wanderers
Gary O'Neil's first season in charge saw Wolves secure safety despite early crises and key player departures. A late-season slump shouldn't overshadow their overall solid performance.
This comprehensive review covers the highs and lows of each Premier League club's 2023/24 season, highlighting key achievements and areas for improvement.
