As the English Premier League kicks off this weekend, the air is thick with excitement and anticipation. Teams across the league are eager to make their mark and improve on last season’s performances.
We had the opportunity to catch up with the renowned sports broadcaster and Hollywoodbets Brand Ambassador Carol Tshabalala ahead of the season’s start. She shared her insights on what fans can expect this year.
According to Tshabalala, Brentford enters the season with a sense of uncertainty. The club faces challenges that could make or break their campaign. After finishing 16th last season, Brentford is under pressure to improve, but the road ahead is far from smooth.
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Manager Thomas Frank will be looking to strengthen his squad, especially with the fact that other clubs are actively pursuing the team’s top striker, Ivan Toney, who was also serving an 8-month suspension for gambling offences.
“Thomas Frank is aware that his team needs a rapid improvement from last season, the team ended 16th down from the heavy heights of a 9th place finish in 2022-23.
“Over-reliance on Bryan Mbeumo and Ivan Toney caused Brentford’s early season slump last season, with Toney serving a suspension for gambling offences and Mbeumo injured at times,” Tshabalala said.
Their first match of the season sees them facing Crystal Palace. Playing in front of their home crowd, Brentford is eager to make amends for last season’s struggles.
The team knows that a victory against Crystal Palace would not only set the tone for the season but also restore some much-needed confidence.
On the other hand, Manchester United seems to be on a stronger footing this season. Tshabalala believes that the team has achieved more balance and consistency, thanks to key changes in their department.
After finishing last season on a high by winning the FA Cup, United aim to keep up their momentum and push for more success this season. Although they missed out on a spot in the Champions League, they’re determined to get back there.
“Consistency is key with Erik Ten Haag heading into a third season at Manchester United with a trophy to build on from last season and key additions in defence with Noussair Mazraoui and Matjjis De Ligt, United have strengthened in a key department.
“They have also added former striker Ruud Van Nistelrooy to the coaching staff, he brings with him an understanding of the culture and the pressure that players face at Manchester United,” said Tshabalala.
Will we see similar strikes from @OfficialBHAFC's Yankuba Minteh when the season kicks off? pic.twitter.com/poa5YK7w3l
— Premier League (@premierleague) August 14, 2024
Meanwhile, Arsenal supporters have plenty to be optimistic about. With several new signings strengthening the squad, things are looking up for the Gunners.
Tshabalala believes that these additions could be the missing pieces that help Arsenal push for a title this season and even in the Champions League.
“Missed out on the title last season having done the hard work early on, another season in the Champions League will put them in good stead as they go in search of their first title in over 20 years.
“They have made goalkeeper David Raya’s move from Brentford permanent, while the acquisition of Italian defender Ricardo Calafiori will help with defensive strengthening.
As the season unfolds, fans will be eagerly watching to see which teams rise to the occasion and which ones falter under the pressure. One thing is certain: the Premier League is set to deliver another thrilling season of football,” Tshabalala concluded.
