Mikel Arteta has put Chelsea under pressure ahead of Arsenal’s Premier League meeting with the London rivals, suggesting Xabi Alonso’s side should be among the leading title contenders because of their lighter schedule.
Chelsea missed out on European football last season, leaving them with fewer midweek fixtures and greater scope for rest, recovery and preparation. Arteta indicated that advantage could become significant over the course of the campaign.
“I think they have every ingredient to be in the highest part of the table, that’s for sure,” the Arsenal manager said at his pre-match press conference.
Arteta also pointed to Alonso’s arrival, Chelsea’s squad and the club’s history as reasons why the Blues could challenge for the Premier League title.
He added that Chelsea’s fixture list would work in their favour compared with clubs competing in Europe, making them a potentially fresher opponent as the season progresses.
Arsenal, the reigning Premier League champions, had to manage a demanding schedule last season. Arteta’s side were affected by fatigue during the latter stages of the campaign, and the manager will be aware that Chelsea’s lack of European commitments could offer Alonso a valuable advantage.
The two clubs meet at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, September 6, with kick-off at 4.30pm. The fixture was originally scheduled for Saturday before being moved for live television coverage.
