Predicting the 2015-16 team of the season

Eden Hazard? Check. Alexis Sanchez? Sure. But who else will make the English Premier League's best XI at the end of the season? Whether it's established names or newcomers, here's who we predict will rule the roost in 2015-16:

GK - Thibaut Courtois (Chelsea)

Thibaut Courtois isn't the hands-down best goalkeeper in the Premier League, but he's definitely one of the top three. David De Gea's future at Manchester United is in doubt and Petr Cech will need about a year to establish himself at Arsenal, while Courtois just needs to do more of the same this season to succeed.

DF - Matteo Darmian (Manchester United)

This tough choice came down to Matteo Darmian or Chelsea right full-back Branislav Ivanovic. But the new Manchester United man wins out here because of the intangible factors: he wants to prove himself, and, frankly, the Premier League hasn't had many exciting European full-backs recently. The onus is on Darmian to change it up.

DF - Jose Fonte (Southampton)

Spanish central defender Jose Fonte enjoyed a solid 2014-15 season and his trajectory is only pointing up. Fonte isn't just a decent defender but a smart player; he's good for two tackles and three interceptions per game on average, and John Terry isn't getting any younger.

DF - Laurent Koscielny (Arsenal)

Laurent Koscielny gets the nod ahead of Gary Cahill and Vincent Kompany simply because he's faster, fitter, and stronger. Coupled with a resurgent Arsenal side, Koscielny has all the tools he needs to thrive this season.

DF - Cesar Azpilicueta (Chelsea)

At left full-back, Chelsea's Spanish youngster Cesar Azpilicueta is the first and the obvious choice. Barring injury, he should live up to the billing once more in 2015-16. Azpilicueta does his job and does it well. He's a quiet defender: a no-fuss, no-nonsense full-back you can count on.

MF - Alexis Sanchez (Arsenal)

Alexis Sanchez will be the reason Arsenal either succeeds or fails this season. If the Chilean winger enjoys another dominant season at the Emirates, Arsenal will be a force to be reckoned with. If he doesn't? At least he'll make Tottenham fans happy. Still, Sanchez is a pretty good lock for a spot on this XI.

MF - Cesc Fabregas (Chelsea)

Cesc Fabregas recorded 18 assists last season in all competitions, a testament to this Spanish midfielder's importance to Chelsea's entire formation. With more familiarity among his teammates at the start of this campaign, Fabregas is poised to hit even higher numbers in 2015-16.

MF - Mesut Ozil (Arsenal)

Mesut Ozil endured a bit of stick last season for his work rate, but he absolutely should command the respect of opposition defenders. If you're not careful, this German midfielder will punish you. Even if you think Ozil isn't moving enough or isn't as involved as his teammate Sanchez, do not underestimate this midfielder. Every play goes through Ozil at some point, after all.

MF - Eden Hazard (Chelsea)

The best player in the Premier League, Eden Hazard hasn't shown any sign of slowing down ahead of the start of the 2015-16 campaign. He wins games all by himself for Chelsea and is the most dominant winger across the board. Hazard is competing at the level of Neymar, Lionel Messi, and Cristiano Ronaldo as one of the world's most elite players.

FW - Sergio Aguero (Manchester City)

Sergio Aguero notched 26 goals in league play last season, topping the goal-scoring standings at year's end. Aguero has had a busy summer with Argentina at the Copa America, but once he settles back into the rhythm at Manchester City, he'll be good for at least 20 more goals this year.

FW - Wayne Rooney (Manchester United)

No more Robin van Persie, no more Radamel Falcao - it's Wayne Rooney time at Old Trafford. The English forward has no more distractions and no more competition at Manchester United and can finally have the free role up top he's so desperately desired. It'll pay off, and Rooney will remind the world he's one of the best strikers around by the Christmas break.