ClapThe Premier League season has been pretty fascinating to watch unfold thus far and as we finally reach the halfway point, and prepare for 2022, we want to take a look back at what we’ve seen since proceedings got underway in August.
Some clubs have been able to flourish under these continually difficult circumstances whereas others have faltered, showcasing the true unpredictability of English football’s top tier.
Today, we’re choosing to focus on the negatives by pointing out five teams that have struggled ever so slightly in recent times.
Manchester United – 7th
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wasn’t really able to get the best out of his elite squad and that much is an understatement. Now, with them lingering down in seventh, big questions need to be asked about how much Ralf Rangnick can turn the ship around.
Recent performances have suggested that there’s still a long way to go and with the players he has at his disposal, the January transfer window shouldn’t be all too important.
Leicester – 9th
It was always going to be hard for Leicester City to balance the Europa League and Premier League but up to this point, they’ve had some speed bumps that have left many wondering whether they truly are an elite club right now.
The Foxes have what it takes to cause problems for the best teams in, well, Europe – but they need to show their intent in January and Rodgers needs to build on the philosophy he’s created.
Everton – 15th
There are plenty of valid excuses that can be used by Everton fans when it comes to explaining their current issues, with the ownership and their parade of injuries being two big ones.
Alas, the truth of the matter is that it was always going to go wrong when Rafa Benitez came through the door. Nobody really wanted him there and now, we’re seeing that boil to the surface
Leeds – 16th
Marcelo Bielsa has embedded a real strategy in this team that helped them to enjoy an incredibly successful first season back in the big time, but now is the moment for them to evolve.
They’re funnelling goals at every available opportunity and they look destined to fall victim to the dreaded second season syndrome. Teams have figured them out, and it’s not hard to see why.
Norwich – 20th
Norwich City’s relegation a few years back was supposed to signify the beginning of a real resurgence for the club as a potential top flight force, but they haven’t exactly been thriving since returning back in August.
They are the definition of a yo-yo club and, once again, they are all but set to go back down to the Championship. Is there a way to break the status quo? As of this writing, we can’t see it.
