Chelsea FC's ambitions for the Premier League title are being talked up by pundits as they prepare for a major London derby. The club currently holds fourth place with six points from two wins, scoring seven goals but conceding five so far this season.
What are pundits saying about Chelsea's title chances?
Radio presenter Sam Matterface has spent time around the Chelsea camp recently and shared his observations on TalkSport. He reported a strong sense of ambition from manager Xabi Alonso and the club's ownership, suggesting they are not content with merely securing a Champions League spot. Matterface pointed to the club's summer recruitment as a key factor in their strengthened position.
This external confidence comes as Chelsea sit just three points behind league leaders Manchester City. Their next league challenge after the Arsenal match is a home fixture against Hull City on September 12. You can track their progress in the standings.
Which Chelsea players did Arsenal reportedly target?
A remarkable list of Arsenal's summer transfer targets has been published, naming 21 players they failed to sign. According to a report from the Daily Mail, Chelsea striker Joao Pedro was among the most eye-catching names on that list. The Premier League champions were also reportedly keen on signing Morgan Rogers earlier in the window, but Chelsea secured the £117 million deal from Aston Villa after the World Cup.
Former Arsenal forward Theo Walcott, speaking to the Metro, admitted his old club made a mistake in not signing Rogers. "Tzolis, I like him, but it’s Rogers. We should have got him, oh well," Walcott said while building a combined XI. Rogers has started well at Stamford Bridge with a goal and an assist in three appearances.
How is the squad shaping up for the derby?
Chelsea will be without Jordan Henderson and Marco Palestra for the upcoming matches, as confirmed by the club's injuries list. The team's defensive record shows room for improvement, having let in five goals in their opening two fixtures. However, their attack has been potent, netting seven times for a positive goal difference.
Alan Shearer, speaking to the Metro, predicted an Arsenal win in the derby but acknowledged Chelsea's threat. He highlighted the attacking trio of Rogers, Cole Palmer, and Joao Pedro as capable of causing problems for any defence. Shearer also backed Arsenal to retain the title this season, with Chelsea potentially finishing second or third.
Chelsea's immediate focus is on navigating a difficult start to the season that includes facing the reigning champions. Their campaign continues on September 12 when they host Hull City, who are currently second in the table.
