As the Premier League begins, here is all you need to know about the return of the three newly-promoted sides.
The Premier League is warming up for the new season this weekend and three fresh faces are making their way into the top flight, promising an exciting mix of tradition, ambition, and surprise.
Leicester City and Southampton, both returning to the Premier League after a season’s absence, bring a wealth of top-flight experience, while Ipswich Town’s rise to the Premier League after 22 years away adds an element of the unknown.
Pulse Sports takes a closer look at these three newly-promoted clubs and what they bring to the table for the 2024-25 season.
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The Foxes aim to roar again
Leicester City, champions of the Championship last season, return to the Premier League with a renewed sense of purpose.
The Foxes, who fell from grace the previous season, have undergone significant changes since their relegation.
After a turbulent period and managerial changes, Steve Cooper has been brought in to lead the charge.
Jamie Vardy, now 37, remains a key figure for Leicester. Despite his age, Vardy’s sharpness in front of goal was evident last season as he finished as their top scorer with 20 goals.
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The club has also seen significant departures, including player of the season Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, who has joined Chelsea for £30m.
Leicester’s squad is a mix of seasoned Premier League veterans and exciting new talent. The club’s immediate goal will be to establish itself firmly in the top flight and avoid the pitfalls that led to their previous relegation.
The Saints seek stability
Southampton, the play-off winners from last season, are back in the Premier League following a successful campaign under Russell Martin.
Known for their impressive 25-game unbeaten run, Southampton’s promotion was well-earned, though it came with some changes.
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Adam Armstrong was a standout performer for the Saints, netting 24 goals to be named player of the season.
However, with Che Adams moving to Torino, Southampton have invested in Chilean striker Ben Brereton Diaz, who joined from Villarreal. Brereton Diaz is expected to fill the void left by Adams and bolster Southampton’s attacking options.
Southampton’s key challenge will be to maintain the momentum that got them promoted and adapt quickly to the demands of the Premier League. Their ability to do so will be crucial in their bid to secure top-flight survival.
Ipswich Town: The return of a sleeping giant
Ipswich Town’s return to the Premier League is nothing short of remarkable. After 22 years away, the Tractor Boys have earned their spot in the top flight, finishing second in the Championship and achieving back-to-back promotions.
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Their rise has been driven by the impressive work of manager Kieran McKenna, whose tactics have revitalized the squad.
Ipswich’s squad is relatively inexperienced in the Premier League, with key players like Conor Chaplin, Nathan Broadhead, and Omari Hutchinson having limited top-flight exposure.
However, the club has made significant investments to bolster their squad, including a club-record £20m deal for Hutchinson and the acquisition of Manchester City forward Liam Delap.
Leif Davis, the standout left-back with 18 assists last season, brings some top-flight experience from his time with Leeds. Captain Sam Morsy, set to make his Premier League debut at 33, will be a crucial leader for Ipswich.
With a mix of exciting young talents and seasoned professionals, Ipswich Town’s challenge will be to adapt quickly and make their mark in the Premier League.
While the trio are currently favoured to face the challenge of relegation, their ability to surprise and defy expectations will be one of the many narratives to follow in the upcoming Premier League season.