the fixture Manchester United would most like for next season

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Would this be the fixture Manchester United would most like for next season?

If he had to choose, would Sir Alex prefer another Champions League or a 20th Premiership title to sign off with, if this is to be his last season in charge?

And if it is to be a 20th title, which are the fixtures that fans will most eagerly anticipate?

In some respects the answers ought to be pretty obvious, but some might most enjoy watching the teams United tend to thrash; the easy rides that mean you can relax going to a match or taking your well-worn seat on the sofa?

Some of those may be approached with trepidation after Wigan last year gave us a footballing lesson at a time when we needed every point going.

This season is going to be pivotal in so many ways:

It could well be Sir Alex Ferguson's last (though it won't be announced until the very end);

It could be Giggs and Scholes' last...maybe even Ferdinand;

It should be the first for several years where we have a proper midfield, with players playing in their best positions;

We should do much better in Europe; and the FA and League Cups;

More than at any time since the 1990s, we could be seeing the integration of new signings, several young players from the Academy and the existing mature and experienced players, of which Rooney is just one.

So for many reasons fans will approach this season with a mixture of eager excitement and trepidation in equal measure.

Can City consolidate their position?

Can Chelsea rebuild well enough to recover a top four finish?

Is Brendan Rodgers the answer at Liverpool, or will they continue to drift?

Will Arsenal continue to be trophy-less and could it be Wenger's last season?

Can Newcastle remain a force and has Villas-Boas got what it takes to manage in the Premier League?

None of these questions will be troubling Sir Alex Ferguson. He is more focused on United winning every match, playing the right way, dominating other teams and as a result coming out on top again.

He won't care how well City do, as long as United aren't humiliated again and finish above their cross-city neighbours.

Indeed, maybe City will suffer from "second season syndrome"...