Gary Neville remains convinced that Manchester United will enjoy a vastly superior campaign this term, based on his Premier League table forecast, though his Sky Sports colleague Jamie Carragher holds a different view.
Each season, Neville and Carragher reveal their predictions for the upcoming Premier League campaign. Liverpool launched proceedings last Friday evening with a thrilling 4-2 triumph over Bournemouth at home, whilst championship hopefuls Arsenal and Manchester City also secured maximum points on the opening weekend. Chelsea, who have been remarkably busy during the summer transfer period, faltered against Crystal Palace.
Whilst numerous observers may believe United will miss out on the top four following last season's catastrophic showing, certain individuals maintain faith - with Neville amongst them.
During their forecasts, Sky Sports host David Jones remarked: "13 per cent of Manchester United fans think they will finish in the top four," before addressing Neville and asking: "13 per cent... Have we got one per cent here?" "Course we have," Neville responded, prompting Carragher and Jones to erupt with laughter.
"I can't disappoint you. I've got to come back here in 10 months and try to defend this. So, David, we've worked out before that I've done this now for eight years and I've always had Manchester United in the top four, every year."
In addition to United, Neville tipped Liverpool and City for a top-four finish, while Carragher backed Arne Slot's team to clinch the trophy for a second consecutive season. He also predicted City, Arsenal, and Chelsea would secure top-four spots. On the other hand, Neville forecasted a narrow league win for Arsenal.
"I couldn't separate Arsenal, Manchester City or Liverpool," he confessed.
"I think they're absolutely all in with an equal chance of winning it. Arsenal have been consistent over the last three years, they've been second.
"I do feel they'll get there at some point. Liverpool, the two full-backs have got to settle in. They look a little bit open. They are going to be exhilarating to watch. They're going to score a lot of goals.
"City have an unbelievable spine. I went for the team I've been going for the last three years, they're reliable and solid and consistent, which is important. They just have to sort that forward bit of the pitch out and I think Viktor Gyokeres will."