Gary Neville has responded to a bold assertion that Chelsea might not only catch up with Premier League leaders Liverpool but actually overtake them in the coming weeks.
Despite initial concerns about Chelsea’s prospects after another eventful transfer window and the appointment of Enzo Maresca, the team has surprised many.
Currently second in the Premier League, Chelsea are just four points behind Liverpool, who have a game in hand.
Chelsea’s attacking play has been a highlight, with the team scoring the most goals in the league—35 so far.
Their current form, coupled with a favorable fixture list over the festive season, could see them gain more points and put pressure on Liverpool.
Next up, Chelsea will face Brentford, followed by matches against Everton, Fulham, Ipswich Town, Crystal Palace, Bournemouth, and Wolves. A crucial encounter with Manchester City is scheduled for January 25.
Given the favourable schedule and their impressive performances, sports broadcaster Rebecca Lowe believes Chelsea could be leading the Premier League by 2025.
“Their upcoming fixtures look manageable, and with their form, they might top the table by New Year’s,” she stated on The Overlap US.
Neville, while acknowledging Chelsea’s good run, was cautious in his assessment. “I agree with Enzo Maresca that they won’t win the title, but they’re definitely in the race,” he commented.
He added that Chelsea’s favorable run of games could bring them closer to Liverpool, though he remained skeptical about them being top by January 1.
He emphasized that the Premier League can be unpredictable, and while Chelsea shouldn’t be underestimated, there’s no reason why they shouldn’t get closer to Liverpool given their current form.
However, he warned that despite their progress, they may still fall short in the end.
Liverpool, meanwhile, have been dominant this season under Arne Slot, both in the Premier League and the Champions League, where they have a perfect record.
One of Chelsea’s standout players has been Cole Palmer, who joined from Manchester City in the summer of 2023. Neville, impressed by Palmer’s development, praised him as a “star in a group of very good players.”
He noted Palmer’s consistency, precision, and skill, qualities that have made him an unexpected key player for Chelsea this season.
Though initially skeptical about Chelsea’s need for another wide player, Neville now sees Palmer as an exceptional talent. “He’s been incredible, especially for someone so young. No one could have predicted the level he’s reached,” Neville remarked.