Arsenal, six points clear at the top, heads to Stamford Bridge on a wave of optimism and a growing belief it will end its long wait for a first league title since 2004. With a squad regarded as possibly the strongest in Europe, Mikel Arteta’s team is undefeated in 16 games in all competitions, with 14 wins on that run.
After three straight years as runner up, it feels like Arsenal’s time has come and Wednesday’s demolition of European powerhouse Bayern Munich was further evidence of its credentials to win the biggest prizes, not only the title but perhaps the Champions League as well.
With defending champion Liverpool in freefall and Manchester City also off the pace, it could be Arsenal’s title to lose.
The closest challenger is second place Chelsea, winner of the Club World Cup in July and with a squad that cost more than $1 billion. But it is possibly ahead of the curve in terms of mounting a serious title charge.
Coach Enzo Maresca is only in his second season in the Premier League and has a squad packed with inexperience, but Chelsea produced its standout performance of the campaign to beat Barcelona 3-0 in the Champions League on TuesdayThe clash with Arsenal will be the sternest test yet of their title credentials.
PALMER FIT
Cole Palmer is back for Chelsea after making a sooner than expected return from a toe injury.
The England forward sustained the injury following what was described as an accident at home. But Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca confirmed he was in contention to start the game against Premier League leader Arsenal at Stamford Bridge.
“Having Cole back is good news and everyone is happy,” said Maresca. “He can help us a lot. He is arguably our best player and we are happy he is back. Now we have to give him time to be 100% fit. He has done fantastic in the past and no doubt he is going to do very good things for this club in the future.