Who could be in the running for Premier League “underachievers”?

The Premier League season is up and running and moreso than ever before, expectations are high.

From top to bottom there are 20 clubs competing in 2021/22 who believe they can accomplish big things between now and May. They obviously can’t all achieve their ultimate goal but there are a few that have fanbases full of optimists, many of whom anticipate some strong showings and impressive cup runs.

With regards to the league specifically, though, we’ve picked out five clubs who could easily fall short of the mark when thinking about what their end game might be.

Manchester United

Jadon Sancho, Raphael Varane, Cristiano Ronaldo. Those are three signings that scream “title contenders” and yet we’re just not so sure it’s possible within the current climate. Manchester United have been hoping and praying to get back to their former glories ever since Fergie left but ultimately, their issues in the middle of the park will likely prove too much to overcome.

Wolves

There are so very many players within Wolves’ starting XI that can do some serious damage at this level but the problem for Bruno Lage is his lack of squad depth. The owners haven’t really backed the manager in the way they should’ve and if they pick up just one or two injuries between now and Christmas, an unlikely relegation battle could legitimately be on the cards.

Arsenal

Without the distraction of European football we’d say this Arsenal team should be pushing for a top six finish – not lingering down in the bottom three. We’ve still got 35 games left to be played, of course, but Mikel Arteta just doesn’t come across as the right man for the job and if the Gunners aren’t careful, they won’t even make it into the top half.

Just picture AFTV if that happens.

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Leicester

Leicester City have been knocking on the door of the Champions League for two years and haven’t quite been able to get over the finish line. Brendan Rodgers knows how good his side is, especially after winning the FA Cup, but could that reputation start to harm them?

If they focus too much on the Europa League and slip out of the top six race then things could start to get a bit tense.

Crystal Palace

Some will say Crystal Palace aren’t expected to do much this season and we completely understand that. However, the change of Patrick Vieira coming in for Roy Hodgson did seem to inject some life into the Selhurst Park faithful. Unfortunately for them, the former Arsenal man just doesn’t have what it takes to thrive as a top flight gaffer – at least not right now.

Featured image credit: Getty