The Premier League trophy may soon have a new home, with Emmanuel Petit backing Chelsea as surprise title contenders thanks to their unrivaled squad depth under Enzo Maresca.
Manchester City, winners of the last three league titles, are faltering. After four consecutive defeats, Pep Guardiola’s side sits fifth in the table, 11 points adrift of league leaders Liverpool. Despite a squad filled with stars like Erling Haaland, Kevin De Bruyne, Phil Foden, and Ruben Dias, City’s form has left them struggling to keep pace.
Petit, however, believes that it’s Chelsea, not City, who possess the strongest squad in the league. The Blues, rejuvenated under new boss Enzo Maresca, have emerged as potential “dark horses” in the title race. Chelsea has only suffered three losses this season and sits within striking distance of the league’s top spots.
Maresca has downplayed Chelsea’s title chances, claiming the squad isn’t yet ready to compete with Liverpool, Arsenal, or City. Petit disagrees, pointing to Chelsea’s transformation under Maresca and their favorable schedule as reasons they shouldn’t be counted out.
“I was with another former player the other day who said Chelsea have no chance, but I disagree,” Petit said in an interview with Gambling Zone. “They have a favorable schedule, having already faced most of the big teams. Chelsea’s transformation this season is magnificent.”
Petit also drew on his own experience with Arsenal in 1998, recalling how the Gunners overcame a 13-point deficit at Christmas to claim the title. “It’s only December,” Petit noted. “Do not count Chelsea out yet.”
Chelsea’s deep roster has allowed Maresca to field separate squads for the Premier League and Europa Conference League. This depth, Petit argues, provides a crucial edge over rivals who are stretched by Champions League commitments.
The Frenchman also lauded Maresca for his ruthlessness in reshaping Chelsea’s identity. “He has shown no pity to his players, exiling the deadwood and even parting ways with players signed just a year ago,” Petit said. “He’s built a spine and instilled his vision quickly—it’s been remarkable.”
Chelsea will look to build on their strong domestic form with a trip to face Southampton on Wednesday. Rooted to the bottom of the table with just five points from 13 games, the Saints provide an opportunity for Chelsea to further stake their claim as contenders.
With Liverpool, Arsenal, and Manchester City in contention, Chelsea’s revival under Maresca could make this one of the most competitive Premier League title races in years. For now, Petit’s bold prediction ensures the Blues will remain firmly in the spotlight.
For more updates and analysis, follow SoftFootball on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.