I don't think Arsenal will finish above City this season.
As things stand right now, there is little chance we will finish above them.
Indeed.
But i'm not to sure if Chelsea can rely on Anelka for another season, Ballack is gone and Deco's going to follow him, i would like a signing in midfield,i really don't trust Benayoun either.
On the other hand Essien and Bosingwa are back.
But Drogba and Cech are injured, Chelsea could do with another GK to challenge Cech who is very injury prone for a GK and another forward too, asides from ramires who they're probably getting anyways.
They don't need to rely on Anelka, the thing about Anelka thats going for him is that he and Drogba have an almost telepathic understanding, but if he doesn't deliver they could always revert to their old 4-3-3 and play Malouda and Benayoun/Kalou on the wings.
I agree about them needing a keeper, Cech gets injured too much and neither Turnball nor Hilario are good enough to replace him for an extended period of time.
Bosingwa coming back will pose an interesting dilemma for Ancelotti, Ivanovic had a very good season last year and was IMHO the best and most consistent rightback in the EPL last season, Bosingwa will have to fight for his position back.
Essien is a world class player, easily one of the best and most complete midfielders in the world right now. Him coming back for Chelsea is like a new signing, if he manages to stay fit for next season, Chelsea's midfield will be a lot better.
Why do people expect Man U to do bad this year? The team is pretty much unchanged.
Because last season they survived on Rooney playing imo above his ability. Not to forget they can't rely on Scholes, Neville and Giggs anymore. Their squad needs strengthening, and they don't have the money to do it. I will be surprised if they win the league next season.
That being said, I strongly doubt they'd finish outside the top four, in fact i'd go as far as saying that would be near impossible. I just don't believe they have what it takes to win the league.
They are two-three players short of a title winning squad if you ask me.