The 2024 football season in England delivered a mix of remarkable highs, crushing lows, and transformative shifts. From Manchester City’s historic title win to Liverpool’s managerial success, and from the rise of new stars to farewells from legendary figures, the year has been unforgettable. Let’s dive into the highlights that shaped English football this year.
Manchester City’s Record-Setting Triumph and Sudden Decline
Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City continued their dominance in the Premier League, securing an unprecedented fourth consecutive title in May. A nine-game winning streak at the end of the campaign propelled City past Arsenal, who pushed the title race to the final day but ultimately fell short by two points.
Erling Haaland was unstoppable once again, claiming his second Golden Boot, while Phil Foden delivered standout performances, and Rodri added a Ballon d’Or to his accolades. City’s fourth straight title cemented their place in history, a feat no team had ever achieved in English football.
However, their dominance didn’t last. The 2024-25 season began promisingly with four consecutive wins, including a thrilling draw against Arsenal. Haaland’s confident jab at Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta to “stay humble” turned out to be prophetic—for City, not their rivals.
A shock defeat to Tottenham in the League Cup triggered a catastrophic slump. Over the next 13 games, City managed just one victory, suffering nine losses. Humiliating defeats—4-1 against Sporting CP, 4-0 at home to Spurs, and a meltdown in the Manchester Derby where they conceded two late goals—marked a stunning collapse. Guardiola and his previously indomitable squad now face the challenge of rebuilding their shattered aura.
Liverpool Flourishes Under Arne Slot
As City faltered, Liverpool seized their opportunity. Under new manager Arne Slot, the Reds have emerged as strong title contenders, boasting an eight-point lead heading into the new year.
Slot took over from Jurgen Klopp, who ended his tenure at Liverpool after nearly a decade. Klopp left with a Carabao Cup victory over Chelsea, a fitting farewell for a manager who transformed Liverpool into perennial contenders.
Many expected Slot to face a transitional period. Instead, the Dutchman has adapted seamlessly, building on Klopp’s foundation and guiding the Reds to a commanding position in the league. With their December win over City, Liverpool under Slot appears poised to claim their first Premier League title since 2020.
Manchester United’s Continued Turmoil
While Liverpool and City grabbed headlines, Manchester United endured another disappointing year. Despite an FA Cup victory in May, their eighth-place league finish was their worst since 1990. Manager Erik ten Hag was dismissed after another poor start to the season, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s new ownership group deciding a change was necessary.
Ruben Amorim replaced Ten Hag but has struggled to steady the ship. A 2-0 defeat to Newcastle United has left United languishing in 14th place, dangerously close to the relegation zone. Amorim has acknowledged the gravity of the situation, openly addressing the unthinkable possibility of a relegation fight.
United’s problems extend far beyond the dugout, with a lack of cohesion and direction hindering progress. The club faces a long road back to the top of English football.
Cole Palmer Shines at Chelsea
Among the standout individual performances of the season, Cole Palmer’s rise has been nothing short of sensational. The young forward, who left Manchester City for Chelsea, has become a key figure at Stamford Bridge.
Palmer scored 22 goals in the 2023-24 season, second only to Haaland, earning him the PFA Young Player of the Year award. This season, he has continued his stellar form, including a remarkable four-goal first-half performance against Brighton.
Chelsea, buoyed by Palmer’s brilliance, are now genuine title contenders. City’s decision to let him leave has drawn widespread criticism, as Palmer has proven to be the cornerstone of Chelsea’s resurgence.
Aston Villa’s European Adventure
Unai Emery’s Aston Villa capped off a stellar second half of the 2023-24 campaign by securing a Champions League spot. The Villans have not just participated—they’ve made an impact.
Victories over Bayern Munich and a draw with Juventus highlight Villa’s impressive form in Europe. With knockout stages on the horizon, Villa looks well-equipped to continue their European journey in 2025.
Farewells to Managerial Legends
The year also marked the end of eras for two iconic managers: Chelsea Women’s Emma Hayes and England’s Gareth Southgate.
Emma Hayes departed Chelsea after a 12-year reign to take over as head coach of the U.S. Women’s National Team. Hayes left on a high note, guiding Chelsea to their seventh Women’s Super League title and fifth consecutive league triumph. However, her team narrowly missed out on additional silverware, losing the League Cup final to Arsenal.
Gareth Southgate also bid farewell to the England men’s team after eight years in charge. Despite criticism during his tenure, Southgate leaves with an impressive record, having led the Three Lions to a World Cup semi-final and two European Championship finals. His final game, a heartbreaking loss to Spain in the Euro 2024 final, marked the end of an era. Thomas Tuchel is set to take over as England’s manager in 2025, ushering in a new chapter.
The Year Ahead
As the 2024 season transitions into 2025, English football remains as captivating as ever. Manchester City’s unexpected collapse, Liverpool’s resurgence under Slot, and the emergence of stars like Cole Palmer ensure the sport continues to capture imaginations.
With key managerial changes at Manchester United and England, and the Champions League offering fresh narratives, the stage is set for another thrilling year. English football, with its unpredictability and drama, remains unmatched in its ability to deliver unforgettable moments.
