Arsenal vs Chelsea clash to shape the Premier League title race
Arsenal, six points clear at the top, head to Stamford Bridge on a wave of optimism and growing belief that the long wait for a first league title since 2004 will be over. Mikel Arteta’s team, which has a squad that is arguably considered the strongest team in Europe, is unbeaten in 16 matches in all competitions and has won 14 in this series.
After three consecutive years of runners-up, we feel Arsenal’s time has come, and Wednesday’s demolition of European powerhouse Bayern Munich was a testament to Arsenal’s competence to win the biggest honours, not just the title but perhaps the Champions League as well.
With reigning champion Liverpool in free fall and Manchester City off the pace, Arsenal may lose the championship.
The closest rival is second-place Chelsea, who won the Club World Cup in July and has a squad worth more than $1 billion. However, it is probably ahead of expectations in terms of imposing a serious title deed expense.
Coach Enzo Maresca is in his second season in the Premier League and has an inexperienced squad, but Chelsea showed off their outstanding performance of the season by beating Barcelona 3-0 in the Champions League on Tuesday.
PALMER FIT
Cole Palmer is back at Chelsea after making an earlier-than-expected return from a toe injury.
The English striker suffered an injury after what was described as an accident at home. But Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has confirmed he is in contention to start against Premier League leaders Arsenal at Stamford Bridge.
“It’s good news that Cole is back and everyone is happy,” Maresca said. “He can help us a lot. He is arguably our best player and we are happy to have him back. Now we have to give him time to get 100% fit. He has done great things in the past and there is no doubt he will do great things for this club in the future.”
