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#3 West Ham United
The 2020-21 Premier League campaign was a season of rejuvenation for West Ham for many reasons. David Moyes built a well drilled unit last season and the Hammers finished sixth, something that many did not see coming.
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An assured backline covered by the midfield duo of captain Declan Rice and the incredible Tomas Soucek was pivotal to their success. But the addition of Jesse Lingard on loan in the January transfer window completely galvanized the squad.
Lingard joined from Manchester United in search of regular gametime and thrived at the east London club. In a West Ham team that played quick counter-attacking football, he became the best player in the second half of the Premier League.
The Hammers will be looking for a repeat of last season, but they are the only team on the list playing midweek in Europe. As such, the challenge could be slightly more intense for West Ham this term.
With additional fixtures, limited squad depth and the possibility of Lingard staying at Manchester United, it can't get any harder for David Moyes and company.
#2 Leeds United
Marcelo Bielsa's side exceeded expectations in their first season back in the Premier League. Nobody expected a newly promoted side to take Premier League teams head-on and much of it is down to Bielsa's all-out attacking style of play and incredible fitness levels.
This upcoming season will be about maintaining that success from last season and not falling prey to the 'second season syndrome.'
While they have had no problems going toe-to-toe against any side in the Premier League last season, the defense has been a huge concern for Leeds. Their error-prone backline was unable to provide sufficient cover for their 'murderball' style of play, conceding heavily on multiple additions.
The Whites have retained key players in Kalvin Phillips, Patrick Bamford and Raphinha, while making some smart additions like Junior Firpo and signing Jack Harrison on a permanent deal.
Hopes are high for Leeds in their second season in the top-flight, with a league opener against arch rivals Manchester United. If Bielsa can work his magic again, you wouldn't put it past them to ruffle a few feathers.
#1 Aston Villa
After a really bright start, Villa fell short throughout the course of the season, finishing 11th in the Premier League last term.
Injury to captain Jack Grealish kept him on the sidelines as Villa struggled for creativity. His absence will be felt a lot more this season after he made the move to defending Premier League champions Manchester City for a British transfer record-fee.
It will always be difficult to replace your captain and best player, let alone someone as unique as Grealish.
But with one of the richest owners in the Premier League and a capable manager running proceedings, Villa have been smart in the transfer market, quickly investing in the future.
They have acquired the services of striker Danny Ings, creator Emi Buendia from Norwich, and the lightning quick Jamaican Leon Bailey to bolster their attack.
And with Tyrone Mings, Ezri Konsa and Copa America winner Emiliano Martinez, Villa have a more than solid back line. The return of Ashley Young on a free transfer and signing Axel Tuanzebe on loan from Manchester United could also help their cause.
Dean Smith's side will fully believe they can push for European qualification this time around in the Premier League.
