Every year, the anticipation of the start of a new Premiership football season brings fierce debate amongst fans of the game as to who will be crowned Premiership champions by May next year. The 2009/2010 season is no different, with greater spending and greater expectations, but who is YOUR favourite? News Blog RC discusses the contenders.

Manchester United
The current champions have lost both Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez over the summer transfer window. In the most competitive league in the World, a 30 goals a season player is rare to come by, especially one in midfield, so £80 Million pounds for Ronaldo is justifiable, but has Fergie done enough to replace his losses? With Michael Owen signed on a free transfer and Antonio Valencia coming in from Wigan, only time will tell how big the impact of Ronaldo’s loss will be. Many United fans believe there will be more of a team game displayed at Old Trafford this year and it’s no doubt pressure will be on the likes of Berbatov and Rooney to perform. With money still lying in the bank, will Ferguson attempt to swoop for David Villa or David Silva from Valencia.

Chelsea
News Blog RC believe that Chelsea are the team to beat this season. Their transfer activity has been slower than usual, with Russian winger Zhirkov and young striker Daniel Sturridge their notable acquisitions. Despite this, Chelsea have the strongest squad on show and with new manager Carlo Ancelotti, their fans will be hoping for stability and their superstars to achieve their potential. Ancelotti has spoken of a 2 striker forward line so it will be exciting to watch Anelka and Drogba in tandem for a run of games.

Liverpool
Last season’s runners up have also lost one of their players to Real Madrid, midfielder Xabi Alonso signing for £30 million. So far manager, Rafa Benitez has only strengthened their full back position by purchasing Glen Johnson for £18 million. It is thought that Rafa will look to try and lure David Villa or David Silva to Anfield. Last season the loss of Fernando Torres to injury effectively stalled their title charge so it will be important for Liverpool to keep him fit. The signing of Italian Alberto Aquilani is imminent and Javier Mascherano also remains a public target for Barcelona. News Blog RC predict that unless Liverpool strengthen the squad they may struggle this season and it won’t be as good as the last.

Arsenal
Arsene Wenger has been criticised by the media for not spending enough in the transfer market and this season have lost Kolo Toure and striker Adebayor to big spending Manchester City. There is no doubt they have talent in the squad and will still pose a threat. However, News Blog RC believe that until they find a replacement for Patrick Viera, Arsenal will always struggle against the more physical teams away from home.

Manchester City
The top four has now become a top five following the transfer activity of Manchester City. Big name players Carlos Tevez, Emmanuel Adebayor, Roque Santa Cruz, Gareth Barry, Kolo Toure and possibly Joleon Lescott have been added to their books. Owner, Sheikh Mansour has signalled the intent of his ambition by providing manager Mark Hughes with an open cheque book for the signing of players and paying wages. The majority of Premiership fans will be envious and with no European commitments this season, City may prove to be the dark horses in the title race. Realistically a Champions League spot will be a huge achievment and no doubt provide the platform to purchase the real stars the owners are craving for at Eastlands.

Who do you think will win the Premiership?
Comment below with your view.