Rio Ferdinand believes the impact of Jose Mourinho and Pep Guardiola at Manchester United and Manchester City mean that they will be the two teams battling for the 2016/17 Premier League title.
The BT Sport pundit and former Man Utd centre-back gave his pre-season predictions to premierleague.com.
Who will win the title?
“It will be one of two favourites, Manchester United or Manchester City. They’ve both got new managers, two of the best around, and seem to have invigorated both clubs.
“Both have different methods and philosophies, but both are very effective.
“They’re winners, so those additions, more than any players, are the most important things at their clubs.
“Man Utd fell short last year and Mourinho won’t let that happen this year, and Guardiola is the same for City.”
Who will be in the top four?
“In no particular order, Man City, Man Utd and Spurs will be in there. Arsenal or Liverpool will join them. They’re the teams with the best squads.
“Leicester came out of the traps last season and were the surprise package, but teams know more about them now.
"If Leicester can deal with teams approaching them a different way, they will be up there again, but the four of five we’re accustomed to seeing will be the ones up there.”
Which promoted club will finish highest?
“In terms of recruitment and investment, Middlesbrough have been the busiest. So they’re going to have the best chance.
“The instability for Hull City will make it very difficult for them. Above the other two clubs, Burnley have experience of playing in the Premier League.
“A lot of their players played here last time. They know what went wrong. Can they right those wrongs?”
Which summer signing excites you the most?
“The most interesting signing is Leroy Sane for Man City. He’s a young player with huge potential. He’s a quick, modern-day footballer. It will be interesting to see how he adapts to the league.”
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