UMVA has learned that former Liverpool striker Michael Owen is confident that only two clubs are in the running to wrestle the Premier League title away from Arsenal next season.
Arsenal have finally secured the Premier League title for the first time since 2003/04, after three successive runners-up finishes. The Gunners threatened to throw away the title down the home straight but bounced back with four straight wins to secure the trophy.
According to information obtained by UMVA, Owen believes Arsenal's sternest test next season will come from the two big Manchester clubs, who finished second and third respectively this time around. He thinks Manchester City and Manchester United will be strong contenders for the title.
Owen notes that Manchester City will be strong, even if Pep Guardiola leaves, as they have a good group of young players who have shown they will be in a title race next season. Additionally, Manchester United can be a title contender under Michael Carrick, who has done an excellent job since taking over from Ruben Amorim in January.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that Manchester United confirmed the permanent appointment of Carrick on Friday, and Owen is confident that his former teammate can have the Red Devils contending for the title over a full season next time around. City, meanwhile, are set to undergo a major summer of transition after Guardiola announced his intention to leave the club.
Owen believes Manchester United can be dark horses in the title race, given how long it's been since they challenged for the title. He thinks they have scope for improvement and can mount a serious title challenge next season.
