1. Manchester United need another year before CL football
The two Manchester clubs were earmarked for the title prior the kickoff of the season. Rightfully so, both sides boast world class managers, unlimited spending power, and quality transfers. While Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City is competing, Jose Mourinho’s Manchester United has floundered throughout the season. After another successive home draw against a lackluster West Ham United, adding on to the disappointing home draws against Burnley and Stoke City. This now brings them seven points off the top four in the League. United’s main gripe is their inability to finish chances. While the likes of Pogba, Mata, and Herrera can play mesmerizing football at times; the lack of goals up front has been striking. Even if United can start scoring regularly again, the consistency of Manchester City, Chelsea, Arsenal, and Liverpool at the top is frightening. The Red Devils will need to buy a more consistent goal scorer next season before competing consistently at the top.
2. Leicester Terrible in England, Incredible in Europe
For Leicester, a weaker title defense couldn’t be mounted. Having fallen dramatically off the top of the table, they now flounder in midtable territory. Mahrez and Vardy have been shadows of themselves compared to last season. The absence of N’Golo Kante can be felt throughout the Leicester squad. However, compared to their performance in Europe; one would think it was a Manchester City or Chelsea dominating their group. Now comfortably top the table, Leicester enter the playoffs as first seed in their group. If luck smiles on Ranieri’s men, they can even take their European fairytale one step further.
3. No clear Favorite in Europe yet
None of the European teams have impressed to the point yet that they can be declared favorites for the title yet. Bayern Munich have been locked into the second in their group. Barcelona have been inconsistent. Real Madrid is losing out to Borussia Dortmund in their group. Atletico Madrid, while winning the group over Bayern, are losing ground in La Liga. Borussia Dortmund also suffer the same issue as Atletico Madrid. Manchester City also needs more consistency before singing their praises in Europe. Teams have been relatively unpredictable so far. Although one thing is for sure, it will be an exciting Round of 16.
