Arteta: Chelsea Have Title-Challenging Elements with Easier Schedule

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta suggested at the pre-match press conference that Chelsea should be strong contenders for the Premier League title this season because the Blues have an easier schedule. The comments may also have been part of a psychological tactic.

When asked whether Chelsea would become Arsenal's main rival in the league title race, Arteta said Chelsea “have all the elements” to be among the teams at the top of the table. The reasons he gave included Chelsea having a top coach, a strong squad, and a more favorable schedule compared with other teams.

Schedule advantage becomes a focus

Chelsea missed out on European competition last season, meaning new manager Xabi Alonso's team will not have to deal with midweek European fixtures this season. Arteta specifically mentioned this, believing it gives Chelsea players more time to rest and recover, while also providing more opportunities to refine tactical plans on the training ground.

“I think they have all the elements and they will definitely be at the top of the table,” Arteta said at the pre-match press conference. “Knowing him (Alonso), knowing the history of this club, knowing the quality of their squad, and then the schedule they are going to have compared to other teams, so that could very well be the case.”

Arsenal showed signs of fatigue from competing on multiple fronts last season

In contrast to Chelsea's single-front campaign, Arsenal did a good job balancing multiple competitions last season—not only winning the league title but also reaching two cup finals. However, this also meant Arteta's team began to show signs of fatigue as the season progressed.

For that reason, how Arsenal respond to a potentially more refreshed Chelsea this season will be a key point of interest. The two teams will meet directly at the Emirates Stadium at 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, and the match will not only be a battle for league position but also a clash between two different schedule rhythms.