Mikel Arteta thoughts on Enzo Maresca say a lot as Arsenal boss makes Chelsea title claim

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has admitted he believes Chelsea were Premier League title challengers heading into the season.

The Gunners currently six points clear of their rivals, with the Blues now a much improved team under Enzo Maresca. Last season's meeting at Emirates Stadium saw Arsenal come away 5-0 winners but this weekend's clash is likely to be a much closer encounter.

Arteta's squad currently sit in second and know Liverpool are the likely champions, while Chelsea could climb to third with a victory in north London. Securing a Champions League spot is paramount for both teams, with fifth place looking like a viable route due to current standings.

Speaking to the media ahead of the match, Arteta suggested he had expected greater things from Chelsea under 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. “They have so much there. The moment that everything lies together and they find that connection, energy and consistency, I think they can compete with any team.”

Despite Chelsea's improved league standing, the side have continued to underwhelm this season as their youth-focused recruitment policy yields mixed results. After a promising spell in December that saw them closing in on Liverpool at the top of the table thanks to a streak of five consecutive wins, Chelsea's challenge has wavered, with just four wins in their last 12 outings exposing some all-too-familiar weaknesses.

Fans have voiced their discontent with Chelsea's tactics in recent matches; however, coach Maresca is steadfast, urging his squad to stick to his game plan despite potential backlash from supporters. Arteta backed the former Leicester boss to come good with his methods.

“He’s a magnificent coach,” he said. “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.”

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