Didi Hamann's Premier League predictions will leave Liverpool fans alarmed

Didi Hamann has thrown a curveball with his latest Premier League predictions , backing Manchester United to leapfrog both Arsenal and Liverpool in the upcoming season.

Despite his roots firmly planted at Liverpool, Hamann sees a resurgence for Erik ten Hag's players after their dismal eighth-place finish last year - their poorest in Premier League history. Ten Hag was on thin ice, nearly facing the axe, but after extensive deliberations and considering other potential managers, United's hierarchy stood by him.

With United bolstering its ranks with Joshua Zirkzee and Leny Yoro, Hamann anticipates a significant climb into second place for United in the 2024-25 season. Yet, he doesn't envision them snatching the title from Manchester City's grasp .

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"It's hard not to see Manchester City where they always are (at the top)," Hamann told TopOffshoreSportsBooks. "I'm not certain about Arsenal because they have missed their chances."

Hamann, the former Liverpool maestro, added a disclaimer to his bold forecast for United, who is rumored to be eyeing deals for Bayern Munich's Matthijs de Ligt and PSG's Manuel Ugarte. "I would go for Manchester City, Manchester United - if they make the signings they are linked with - then Arsenal in third and Liverpool in fourth," Hamann declared. "I've got a feeling Man United will do okay next season. Obviously, Kobbie Mainoo has been a breath of fresh air in the Euros and he'll play a major role."

What about Liverpool? New boss Arne Slot has a tough job on his hands to build on Jurgen Klopp's final season, where the Reds clinched a trophy and secured third place in the league. The Dutchman was Liverpool's top choice after Xabi Alonso chose to remain with German champion Bayer Leverkusen.

"Things happen very quickly in football," Hamann added. "Maybe Liverpool end up needing a new manager at Christmas? Stranger things have happened. You wish Arne Slot all the best but if you have a bad start then fans can get upset and really and you never know, but I hope he is at Liverpool for years to come.

"Can I see [Xabi] Alonso at Liverpool one day? Yeah, of course I can. But it's always a matter of timing. They just need to beat Bayern Munich to land Alonso - they will want him too but I back the Reds to seal his signature."