Chelsea were once seen as Liverpool's most likely Premier League title challengers but they've fallen away with their decline coming as a huge surprise to Arne Slot
Comments
Sport
Arne Slot admits he's surprised by Chelsea's struggles in 2025
Arne Slot admits he's surprised by Chelsea's struggles in 2025
(Image: Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Arne Slot admits he's surprised by how much Chelsea have fallen away this season. The Blues were Liverpool's closest contenders in December and tipped as outsiders to win the Premier League.
When Chelsea beat Brentford in mid-December they closed to within two points of the Reds. That came two months after they'd given the Merseysiders a run for their money at Anfield, narrowly losing 2-1 as they caused the champions numerous problems.
Nicolas Jackson scored at Liverpool before Curtis Jones ultimately came up with the winner for the hosts. Chelsea's form nosedived following a 1-1 draw with Everton on December 22, which began a run of just two wins in ten games, which included five losses.
As a result Enzo Maresca's side have gone from outsiders for the title to sweating on a place in next season's Champions League. They sit fifth but have both Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest breathing down their neck.
Slot admits he's stunned by their current predicament having been immensely impressed when they headed to Liverpool, declaring them the better team on the day, as they prepare to square off once again at Stamford Bridge this weekend.
READ MORE: Chelsea face Steven Gerrard transfer scenario with Cole Palmer - 'Is he at the right club'READ MORE: Arne Slot details message from Jurgen Klopp after delivering title success to Liverpool
He said: "We played them earlier on in the season and I’m completely surprised if I look at the gap we have between them now because at that time they were the better team on the pitch, but we found a way to win and that is a quality that we haven’t needed a lot, but in that game we had to suffer more than in any other game, maybe. So to be so many points ahead of them is a big compliment for everyone here at this club."
Slot also added: "I do feel it was one of their best games of the season but they have so many good players in their squad, that is the biggest thing you have to fight against."
Chelsea gave Liverpool a scare when they played earlier this season
Chelsea gave Liverpool a scare when they played earlier this season
Chelsea are unbeaten in their last five but face a tough run-in to finish the season, which could prove crucial. After hosting Liverpool they still have to face Newcastle and Nottingham Forest. Blues boss Enzo Maresca insists that the club have had a "good season" but can cap it off by qualifying for the Champions League.
He said: "Chelsea in the last two years have never been in the Champions League spots and this season we spent all season there. So today's win doesn't change my view. It's already a good season and can become very good if we finish in the Champions League spots, no doubt."
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.