Jamie Carragher has backed Enzo Maresca to win the Premier League title in his first season as Manchester City manager, while dismissing Liverpool and Manchester United as genuine contenders. Speaking on the Football Ramble podcast, the former Liverpool defender highlighted City's near-miss last season and the potential impact of a new manager as key reasons for his prediction.
Carragher's Title Verdict
Carragher stated that only Arsenal or City are in the title conversation this season. He pointed to City's resilience last season despite a lackluster campaign, noting that the title race went down to the wire. He also expressed faith in Maresca's tactical acumen, recalling how Chelsea troubled Liverpool under his guidance.
“Where we are right now, and we know there’s still a month to go transfer-wise, I can only see Arsenal or City,” Carragher said. “There’s a question because he [Maresca] is new to the role but I’m a fan of Maresca in terms of what he does on the pitch, in terms of what happened at Chelsea, in terms of watching him tactically and how he set up.”
Why City Over Arsenal
Carragher believes City's new-manager bounce and the presence of Erling Haaland could tip the scales. He also suggested Arsenal might be distracted by their Champions League ambitions after last season's heartbreaking final defeat to PSG.
“I think City. The reason I think City is that I think they were still close last year. I know Pep’s gone, I get that,” Carragher explained. “Just something a little bit new, a little bit fresh. I think if Rodri left for Real Madrid then I wouldn’t be saying that but in terms of where they are right now…”
He added: “I just think City with a new manager would be so invested in the Premier League. With Arsenal, I do feel like there will be a thing with the Champions League: they got to the final, they didn’t lose a game in the tournament and they still never won.”
Liverpool's Transfer Concerns
Despite optimism around new manager Andoni Iraola, Carragher insists Liverpool lack the squad depth to challenge for the title. He identified two central defenders and a top right winger as essential signings, particularly to replace Mohamed Salah.
“Right now I don’t think Liverpool are equipped to be thinking about a title,” he said. “They haven’t replaced Mohamed Salah. We’re going for Bradley Barcola and I’m sitting there, scratching my head.”
He added: “I think Liverpool need two defenders and a top right winger to be in the chat or be in the chase.”
Manchester United's Rebuild
Carragher ruled out United's title hopes but praised their summer transfer strategy, which he said has moved away from signing big names to more thoughtful acquisitions like Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans.
“Manchester United won’t win the league,” he stated. “It doesn’t feel like they’re on this mission to go and get this big name. Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans… sort of what you might think are clever [signings], people not expecting that, something a bit different.”
Impact of Rodri's Future
Carragher emphasized that Rodri's potential departure could be a game-changer, but he advised City to keep the midfielder even if it means losing him on a free transfer later.
“If you’re City, what’s the point in selling Rodri? What’s the point? Just get another year out of him and let him go for free. He’s the best in his position. What’s £40m for City?” he said.
