Carlton fans were heavily tested in 2023 in what was a rollercoaster season for the Navy Blues, struggling to find a consistent brand of football in the opening half of the year before ending their second campaign under Michael Voss as preliminary finalists.
There's a new air of optimism at Princes Park this year, with many backing the Blues to improve on their strong 2023 season and becoming the first club to secure the 17th premiership, edging out arch-rivals and reigning premiers Collingwood to do so.
Following a surprise top-four finish last year, the Blues will have their sights set on going a step, or two, further in 2024. Carlton has the list to compete for the premiership and will be banking on some smoother sailing this season after their rocky road to finals under Michael Voss last year.
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Blues fans will always set high expectations for their club, and with their finals drought now out of the way, their flagless run will be the next hurdle to overcome.
The Blues spearhead is now a back-to-back Coleman Medal winner after booting a career-high 81 goals in 2023.
Curnow's aerial dominance and sharp eye for goal separates him from the rest of the competition, with all 17 other clubs wishing they had a player like him.
The athletically gifted key forward will again lead Carlton's attacking division and will find some support from Harry Mckay, Tom De Koning and Jack Martin throughout.