Barclay's Premier League 2008-09: Who will win it, Chelsea or Manchester United?

As the new Premier League season gets underway, the big question is: who will win it?

Chelsea or United?

Indeed the title is a two horse race. Arsenal for me are out of contention because of their lack of signings and continual release of their best players season after season.

And Liverpool? Well, nobody really expects them to win it (apart from the Anfield faithful that is). Trouble between the two American owners and their relationship with Rafa Benitez are one reason why they won't win it.

The owners don't want Rafa signing Barry, and without the Barry signing, they won't do well. So for this season at least, it is a two horse race.

Manchester United

We'll start with why United could win it.

Firstly, they are the current Premier League and European Champions. This will go a long way to boosting their confidence this season, combined with their decent performance in the Charity Shield despite not having several key players available.

Also, they have a young squad with some very talented players. It is no doubt that after a fantastic debut season in English football for Nani and Anderson, the only way for these two is up.

And with Rooney and Tevez apparently looking their "best ever" according to team-mates and staff, there could be a lot of fantastic individual performances at Old Trafford this season.

Speaking of fantastic individual performances, last season's PFA Player of the Year, Cristiano Ronaldo, has given his club a welcome boost by declaring he will stay at OT—for a year at least. The Portuguese winger—who scored 31 Premier League goals last season—will no doubt be crucial in United's EPL campaign once fit, and a catalyst for United's surge towards the title.

Chelsea

And now why Chelsea could win it.

Things have gone quite well so far this season for the Blues. The team had a good pre-season, including a good workout in China, where they won every game comfortably.

The appointment of Luiz Felipe Scolari (a.k.a Big Phil) could also be another decisive factor. The Brazilian tactician has settled in well to his new role, making a favourable impression on the media, and most likely the Blues fans, and that always helps, having the fans backing you.

Also, the club will be boosted by Frank Lampard committing his future to Chelsea. This could prove key in Chelsea's title charge, with Lampard always able to chip in goals where strikers have failed (Mr. Shevchenko!!).

And another reason why Chelsea WILL win the league this season, according to John Terry this time, is that "United hit their peak last season" and that "Chelsea can do a lot better."

So by my calculations, that must mean Chelsea will win it this season. If you believe John Terry that is.