One issue which has caused all these words about the season being boring etc is that whilst many teams are indeed more even, few can really out a run together which lasts more than 10 to 12 games. We did it around Dec time, Bournemouth at one point were beating everyone, same as Forest, but it isn't sustainable over the course of a season.
I looked at the nine subs for City and Villa last night and most teams could have played all nine as first team players. Which shows their stockpile of talent as I wouldn't say the same for Newcastle.
Big six was always a bit of a Sky fantasy. I wonder if it's now the Super Seven?
Financially they remain way out in front which means they have the means to re-establish themselves if they get their decision making and recruitment right. Ultimately, until we can compete financially we are always in need of them to show a level of incompetence for us to prosper.
Excellent analysis, Matt. You’ve even managed an Excel chart to help explain things. 😀 You’re right, everything points to the big six having had their days of glory, and yes of course at least two of those teams will continue to win things. But they’ll need to up their game against the likes of us, Villa and Forest if they want to keep filling those cupboards with silverware.
MP, your articles are always as illuminating, as they are insightful. Their harsh analysis seeps so much of the joy and unpredictability out of football. I love them. Stay well pal.
I think Manchester City’s situation is a one season blip. It’s a bit harsh to say that they’ve ‘fatally failed’ to rejuvenate an ageing squad. I’m sure their fans would put up with that after 15 trophies- including a treble! And they had quite few young players in the Villa match last night. Which is unfortunate because, as the very good article says, it’s far more interesting when more teams can have a proper attempt at success. And very funny if some of those six are useless! The problem has been that Liverpool have been more consistent & that’s why they’ve tied up the title so early, which has meant that aspect of the season has been boring, as has the relegation situation. However, the fans of the other teams in the top 10-12 would be happy with this most seasons!
Nice one Matthew 👍
A great summary, long may it continue.
Unfortunately Manyoo and Spuds' income will dwarf us gor a bit but we can't have everything.
Great analysis 👍
One issue which has caused all these words about the season being boring etc is that whilst many teams are indeed more even, few can really out a run together which lasts more than 10 to 12 games. We did it around Dec time, Bournemouth at one point were beating everyone, same as Forest, but it isn't sustainable over the course of a season.
I looked at the nine subs for City and Villa last night and most teams could have played all nine as first team players. Which shows their stockpile of talent as I wouldn't say the same for Newcastle.
Big six was always a bit of a Sky fantasy. I wonder if it's now the Super Seven?
Financially they remain way out in front which means they have the means to re-establish themselves if they get their decision making and recruitment right. Ultimately, until we can compete financially we are always in need of them to show a level of incompetence for us to prosper.
Excellent analysis, Matt. You’ve even managed an Excel chart to help explain things. 😀 You’re right, everything points to the big six having had their days of glory, and yes of course at least two of those teams will continue to win things. But they’ll need to up their game against the likes of us, Villa and Forest if they want to keep filling those cupboards with silverware.
MP, your articles are always as illuminating, as they are insightful. Their harsh analysis seeps so much of the joy and unpredictability out of football. I love them. Stay well pal.
For the most part I think Man U, Liverpool & Arsenal will continue to compete at the very top... dare I say forever.
Perhaps I'm wrong ... Could Man City success be eating into Man U fan base & future financial muscle?
But it shows that you cannot take real supporters for granted. Look after your core support or you could end up with a hollowed out shell of a club.
Chelsea on a slow death spiral, just a bigger version of Leicester.
I think Manchester City’s situation is a one season blip. It’s a bit harsh to say that they’ve ‘fatally failed’ to rejuvenate an ageing squad. I’m sure their fans would put up with that after 15 trophies- including a treble! And they had quite few young players in the Villa match last night. Which is unfortunate because, as the very good article says, it’s far more interesting when more teams can have a proper attempt at success. And very funny if some of those six are useless! The problem has been that Liverpool have been more consistent & that’s why they’ve tied up the title so early, which has meant that aspect of the season has been boring, as has the relegation situation. However, the fans of the other teams in the top 10-12 would be happy with this most seasons!
Ah, the Super Seven… I knew all that door-knocking in the nineties would be worth it, and so it proved in March 2025…:)
I had a legitimate wobble after Villa, but the articles on here have reinvigorated me. All hands on deck now! (Ant will be jealous:) Howay the Lads!