Can Any Non-Big Team Crack the Top Six in the Premier League This Season?

The English Premier League is known for its fierce competitiveness, where only a few top teams consistently grace the coveted top positions. Can any non-Big Six team, Leicester City, Wolverhampton Wanderers, and Everton, break into the top six? The 2015-2016 Leicester City victory over the odds serves as a testament that the underdog can rise, so let's explore if this can happen again.

Struggles for Teams Not in the Big Six

Leicester City

Leicester City, having rapidly gained popularity after their 2015-2016 title win, faces several challenges this season. With the loss of key players like Harry Maguire, their defense is weakened. While they have signed talented players like Maddison and Tielemans, the club faces an uphill battle. Their potential to achieve a top-six finish is debatable given their financial challenges and the departure of Maguire.

Everton

Everton, a club with a passionate fanbase, has recently made significant transfers by signing Moise Kean and André Gomes, hoping to improve their standing. However, after the departures of key players like Gueye and Zouma, their fans are questioning if the club can succeed. The young Everton stars, Moise Kean and Richarlison, have a lot of pressure on them, and their development will be crucial for Everton's success this season.

Wolverhampton Wanderers (Wolves)

Wolves are the most stable of the three, having seen modest transfers and retaining their top players. They aim to secure qualification for the UEFA Europa League, a meaningful achievement that would bring financial benefits. Their ability to cope with the double duty of the league and European competitions is a significant challenge. Moreover, their financial strength and the arrival of star player Ruben Neves have boosted their prospects. Captain Conor Coady is a key leader, and Wolves' success this season could hinge on their ability to navigate this dual challenge.

The Role of Money in Premier League Success

Although financial resources are crucial, it is important to note that smaller clubs can still improve their performance. For instance, Leicester City's story from three years ago is a prime example of how a well-coordinated team can succeed. Despite their financial disadvantages, they managed to secure a top-six finish without major blows to their squad. This underlines the fact that financial might alone does not guarantee success.

Dependence on Key Players and Young Talents

The potential of clubs like Everton and Wolves heavily depends on the performance of their key players and young talents. Wolverhampton's success will largely depend on their ability to manage the dual pressures of the league and European competitions. Everton, similarly, must rely on the development and consistent performance of young stars like Moise Kean and Richarlison. Their potential for a top-six finish depends on the balance and effectiveness of their squad, as well as the emergence of new stars capable of stepping up in crucial moments.

Conclusion

While the Big Six remain the most likely teams to secure top-six spots, there is still an outside chance for non-Big Six teams like Leicester City, Wolverhampton Wanderers, and Everton to achieve this feat. The 2015-2016 Leicester City victory demonstrated that it is not impossible. However, it will require a combination of smart transfers, consistent form, and the emergence and success of young talents at these clubs. Every season brings surprises, and the journey is just as exciting.

Final Thoughts

As the Premier League season progresses, fans of these underdogs will hope for a repeat of the 2015-2016 Leicester City victory. While it remains uncertain, the journey and the challenges faced by these teams are what make the Premier League so captivating. So, let's look forward to another thrilling season of Premier League football!