EPL: Why Chelsea Can’t Compete With Man City, Arsenal For Title Race – Maresca

Enzo Maresca has downplayed Chelsea’s chances of competing with Manchester City and Arsenal for the Premier League title, despite their strong start to the season.

Currently sitting fourth in the table, the Blues have been prolific, scoring 15 goals and winning four of their six league matches under the Italian coach.

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Cole Palmer, who netted four first-half goals against Brighton last week, has emerged as one of the standout players in the league.

Maresca showcased Chelsea’s impressive squad depth by rotating the entire starting XI in their 4-2 Europa Conference League victory over Gent on Thursday.

However, just three months into his role, the former Leicester City manager dismissed the notion that Chelsea could realistically challenge the Premier League’s top two and secure their first title since 2017.

“I really don’t think we can compete with City and Arsenal,” he said. “I really think that, because we are not ready.

“The reason why is that City are working with the same manager for nine years, Arsenal for five years. It’s something that if you want to compete for important things, you need that time.”

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Chelsea will welcome Nottingham Forest on Sunday as they look to secure their fourth consecutive Premier League victory.

The atmosphere at Stamford Bridge is a far cry from Forest’s last visit a year ago when they won 1-0, contributing to Chelsea’s difficult season, which saw them finish sixth despite a late surge.

After two years of heavy spending and assembling a vast squad with inconsistent outcomes, Chelsea now appear to be finding their rhythm and could be turning the corner for good.

“When you win games it always creates energy, trust, confidence,” said Maresca. “It’s helping the process.

“But the players are the first to recognise when the team plays well or not. The results are helping but they are convinced because they can see clearly the purpose and identity we have.”

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