As we come to the end of 2018, everyone is reflecting on an eventful year that saw Liverpool lose one of the most incident-packed Champions league finals, England winning a World Cup penalty shootout, and Manchester City winning a title in one of the record-breaking styles. 2018 has some of the most memorable moments in the sports world. You could be asking yourself what we are expecting in 2019. Here are some of the things you can look forward to in 2019.
Liverpool and Manchester City drew 0-0 in October at Anfield. However, what do we expect when they meet in January. Manchester City had already begun to tie their sky-blue ribbons at such a time this year. The side of Pep Guardiola had established a 14-point lead after playing 18 games. Therefore, the race to the tape was more of a formality.
However, things are very different this year. This season is coming out as the most exciting one as Liverpool continue to hold on the lead. Currently, Liverpool is 4 points ahead of Manchester City after both sides played 18 games. Also, you cannot understate the positions that Chelsea and Spurs are holding. All these teams have equal chances of carrying the trophy. Unlike last year, it is not apparent that someone will be taking the prize.
The anticipation and excitement that surrounds the Premier League are also evident in the managers, players, and even supporters. Most of them are weighing down the potential long-term damage of the dropped points before as the year comes to an end.
The exciting football brand that all the teams that are chasing the big prize are offering makes the season exciting. Guardiola of Manchester City, Liverpool’s vibrant Jurgen Klopp, Mauricio Pochettino of Tottenham Hot Spurs, and Maurizio Sarri who is a newcomer at Chelsea all have the determination to clinch the trophy. We cannot overlook Unai Emery as he has breathed some fresh air at Arsenal
Even though Manchester United has had a dull life on the field, Gunnar Solskiaer has a chance to illuminate their ‘Theatre of Dreams’ after the fall of Jose Mourinho.
The Premier League has been reporting dramatic finishes in the recent seasons. For instance, Manchester City hit the Manchester United side on a goal difference during the 2011-2012 season. You can also remember when Liverpool lost out to Man City on the finishing line two years later. There is a high possibility that this season is also going to be dramatic.
Manchester City won the Premium League title by 19 points from Manchester United in the last season. There is a high likelihood that things will not take the same direction this season.
The surprise defeat of Manchester City at home to Crystal Palace before Christmas has a lot to tell us. Remember Liverpool had just beaten Wolves a day before that and City was to make sure that they narrow the gap, but this did not take place. The side of Guardiola is now in the unusual position of having to play the catch-up game. The fact that four points are separating these two teams is something City should worry.
One of the most critical actions in the drama will take place when Liverpool faces Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on January 3rd.
