The 2024-25 Premier League season is officially underway, starting on August 16, 2024, and running through May 25, 2025. As fans eagerly anticipate a thrilling season full of surprises, upsets, and unforgettable moments, teams are gearing up with new signings, tactical adjustments, and intense preparation. All matches mentioned are pre-season friendlies played by Premier League teams as part of their preparations for the upcoming season. Among the many storylines to follow, the return of Ipswich Town to the Premier League after a 15-month absence and Liverpool’s quest to regain their former glory under new management are particularly intriguing.
Ipswich Town’s Return to the Premier League
Ipswich Town, led by manager Kieran McKenna, are back in the Premier League after a brief stint in League One. The Tractor Boys have made six new signings during the transfer window, but McKenna is mindful of maintaining team unity. Ipswich’s pre-season campaign ended on a high note with a 1-0 victory against Nice, showcasing their well-drilled set-piece strategies. With 19 goals from set-pieces last season, second only to Cardiff City, Ipswich’s proficiency in dead-ball situations could be their key to survival in the top flight.
McKenna has emphasized the need to balance their high-intensity, pressing style with the demands of Premier League football. He is focused on adapting their tactics without losing the identity that brought them success. Their pre-season results, including back-to-back clean sheets against Europa League-bound teams, suggest that Ipswich is ready to compete at the highest level.
Leicester City’s Striker Dilemma
Leicester City faces a challenging start to the season with concerns over their striker options. Jamie Vardy, who was expected to lead the line, has been sidelined with an injury sustained in pre-season. His replacement, Patson Daka, also picked up an injury, leaving manager Steve Cooper with limited choices up front. The Foxes have brought in Bobby DeCordova-Reid and Facundo Buonanotte on loan to bolster their attacking options, but whether this will be enough remains to be seen.
Leicester’s pre-season results have been mixed, with a 3-0 loss to Lens in their final warm-up game highlighting their struggles. The departure of key player Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall to Chelsea has further complicated matters. As the new season kicks off, Leicester will need to find solutions quickly if they are to avoid a slow start.
Liverpool’s Midfield Makeover Under Arne Slot
Liverpool is entering a new era under manager Arne Slot, who is implementing a more controlled style of play. The midfield has been a focal point of Slot’s pre-season experimentation, with Dominik Szoboszlai, Ryan Gravenberch, and Wataru Endo all vying for the No. 6 role. Szoboszlai, in particular, has impressed with his performances, including a match-winning goal against Real Betis.
Mohamed Salah, back to full fitness, has been in electrifying form during pre-season, signaling a return to his best. Slot’s willingness to integrate young talent, like England U18 international Trey Nyoni, who scored against Sevilla, suggests that Liverpool’s future looks bright. However, the midfield remains a work in progress, and the club may look to make additional signings to strengthen the squad.
Watch Liverpool’s Midfield Actions on Baji777
As the Premier League season unfolds, fans can stay connected with every match, every goal, and every storyline through Baji777. This audience-choice platform and mobile app offer free live streaming, live scores updates, and in-depth analysis of the 2024-25 Premier League. With expert predictions and extensive post-match coverage, Baji777 is your go-to destination.