Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has admitted he thought Maresca’s Chelsea would be title contenders this season, given their squad depth and tactical setup.
The Gunners host Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday in a crucial Premier League clash. However, both teams are far behind league leaders Liverpool, who hold a commanding 15-point advantage.
With the title race looking out of reach, securing a Champions League spot is now the realistic goal for both London clubs. Arsenal, currently second, are also preparing for a tough Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid. Meanwhile, the Blues sit fourth and will be keen to solidify their position in the top five.
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Despite Chelsea’s inconsistency, Arteta remains convinced of their potential under manager Enzo Maresca. “From the moment I watched them play in pre-season, understanding how Enzo works and the talent they have in the squad, they were contenders to even win it from the beginning,” he said.
Although Chelsea showed promise in December by closing in on Liverpool, their momentum faded quickly. A five-game winning streak had positioned them as potential challengers, but they have since struggled for form. With only four victories in their last 12 matches, defensive vulnerabilities have been a recurring issue.
Even as Chelsea’s performances have drawn criticism, Arteta continues to back Maresca’s approach. “He’s a magnificent coach,” the Arsenal boss stated. “He’s very clear what he wants to do, he’s been very clear what he wants and how he does it. I really like the way his team plays.”
In addition to discussing Chelsea, Arteta also spoke about young defender Myles Lewis-Skelly, who recently received his first England call-up. The 18-year-old made his senior debut last September and impressed during Arsenal’s pre-season tour in the United States.
“You see the talent,” Arteta noted. “You see how they react to certain stimulus or challenges. Then you start to think we’ve got a player here—but then you have to do it. I was very impressed with him in the States when he came on against Liverpool as a sub.”
Arteta emphasised that consistency and training habits are key to a player’s success at the highest level. “His consistency, his habits and the way he trains every single day, give you the right reasons all the time to consider him. The best way to talk is on the pitch, for any player.”
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