Paul Merson admits he would be “shocked” if Chelsea finish above one team in particular this season
Paul Merson Doubts Chelsea’s Chances of Finishing Above Arsenal
Paul Merson, the former Arsenal midfielder and prominent pundit, has voiced his doubts about Chelsea finishing ahead of Arsenal in the Premier League this season. Despite Chelsea’s unexpectedly strong start, Merson remains unconvinced that the Blues can sustain their momentum.
Chelsea currently sit third in the league, level on points with Arsenal but ahead on goal difference. Their solid performances have surprised many, including their manager Enzo Maresca, who admitted the team has exceeded expectations. However, with only one win in their last five league matches, their position is precarious, as just four points separate them from Manchester United in 13th place.
Merson’s Analysis
Merson believes Chelsea’s youthful squad lacks the experience and consistency to compete with Arsenal over the course of the season. Speaking to Sportskeeda, he said:
“I would be shocked if Chelsea finished above Arsenal. Their squad is really young, and I doubt they can get third place this season. If they win the Europa Conference League and finish inside the top four, that would count as a successful campaign.”
While Chelsea fans would relish finishing ahead of Arsenal—something they haven’t managed in the last two seasons—Merson suggests Champions League qualification should be their primary focus.
Contrasting Fortunes
Chelsea’s unexpected resurgence contrasts with Arsenal’s own ambitions of challenging for the Premier League title. While both clubs have shown promise, Arsenal’s more seasoned squad and experience in competing at the top make them favorites to finish higher.
That said, with the Premier League’s trademark unpredictability and the tight margins in the table, anything remains possible. Chelsea’s upcoming favorable fixtures, beginning with a clash against Leicester, could help them build momentum as they aim to defy Merson’s expectations.
For Chelsea supporters, a top-four finish and silverware in the Europa Conference League would indeed represent significant progress under Maresca.
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