The English and European champions go into the campaign with few new signings, but plenty of confidence. Their squad still looks formidable, and the continued presence of Cristiano Ronaldo will be a godsend. Yet will the rumours surrounding the Portuguese winger's desired move to Real Madrid unsettle the side? Does Edwin Van der Sar have another good campaign left in him? How long can Sir Alex Ferguson's legendary motivational skills do the trick?
Chelsea have a new big-name coach in FIFA World Cup™-winner Luiz Felipe Scolari, and have held onto their prize asset Frank Lampard, acquiring the services of Portugal schemer Deco and highly-rated fullback Jose Bosingwa as well. Will Scolari adapt to the hustle-and-bustle of English football? Will Claude Makelele's departure to PSG weaken the midfield engine room? Can Petr Cech put the disappointments of UEFA EURO 2008 behind him?
Arsenal and Liverpool are to be respected as always. The former have signed the skilful Samir Nasri from Marseille and Cardiff's precocious winger Aaron Ramsey, but concerns remain that their side is still a little too inexperienced to challenge for top honours. Fernando Torres is ready to fire in the goals again on Merseyside, but will he have enough support for Liverpool to push for the title that has eluded them for so long?
