According to the A-League's coaches and top players, Melbourne Victory are the team to beat in the 2016-17 season.
A confidential poll of 20 respondents, the 10 coaches plus a senior player from each club, has the Victory at the top of the pile and leading the race for the trophy.
The poll shows just how even the league is expected to be, with eight teams nominated to take home the prize.
Melbourne led the league with five votes, while their cross-town rivals Melbourne City came in second with a total of three votes.
Brisbane Roar coach John Aloisi said it would be difficult to pick a winner this early, but leaned towards two of the more successful teams in A-League history.
โMelbourne Victory are definitely in with a shot. They've got a good squad and we all know what Carl Valeri is like. They're going to be tough,โ Aloisi told AAP.
โBut it's hard to say, it's too early. I think the Sydney and Melbourne sides are going to be strong.โ
New Central Coast Mariners coach Paul Okon agreed with Aloisi's thoughts, and turned his attention to the recruitment of clubs.
โIf I look at Wellington's recruitment, it's very good. If I look at Sydney's recruitment, also very good. Brett Holman coming on board at the Roar is going to give them something extra,โ he said.
โThis year is going to be an even more even battle.โ
Hyundai A-League Champions as voted by 20 coaches and players
5 votes โ Melbourne Victory
3 โ Melbourne City
2 โ Adelaide United, Sydney FC, Western Sydney Wanderers
1 โ Brisbane Roar, Perth Glory, Wellington Phoenix
0 โ Central Coast Mariners, Newcastle Jets