10 Bold Predictions for 2010 - Part 1

The new year of soccer has kicked off with the 3rd round of the FA Cup. 2010 holds several exciting things to look forward to - World Cup in South Africa, Champions League final in Madrid, and the MLS expansion in Philadelphia. I'd like to take this opportunity to make my 10 bold predictions for 2010. Here is Part 1 of the list (in no particular order or importance):

1) In the 1st knockout round of the UEFA Champions League, AC Milan will upset Manchester United. The home-and-away series will feature David Beckham's first return to Old Trafford where he built his career. Pato and Ronaldinho will both score to help the Italian side advance.

2) By the end of 2010 a 10-team NASL will be fully formed, sanctioned by the USSF and operating as the 2nd tier division in US soccer. The USL-1 and USL-2 will combine and sit as the 3rd tier in American soccer. NASL currently has more teams under its operation, a better marketing program, and the public support.

3) Bordeaux will become the first French team to advanced in the UEFA Champions League final 4 since the 2003/2004 season.

4) The MLS will have another 1st time champion at the end of 2010 season - the Seattle Sounders. Seattle add to their strong inaugural season line-up, continue to have 30K plus crowds and will claim the MLS title in only their second year in the league.

5) The English Premiere League top 4 will be broken into for the first time since the 2004/2005 season. Liverpool will be removed from the English hierarchy of soccer, behind 5th place Tottenham and 4th place Manchester City. The ManCity team behind new manager, Mancini, will edge out Tottenham, Liverpool, and Aston Villa to grab the 4th spot in the UEFA Champions League for the 2010/2011 season.

Check back in tomorrow for the second half of my 10 bold predictions for 2010. What are your thoughts about these predictions? Any predictions you would like to add?