Paul Merson is predicting a draw when Chelsea face Arsenal at Stamford Bridge on Sunday evening.
Writing in his column for Sportskeeda, Merson suggested that the Blues’ lack of experience could count against them this weekend:
“I don’t think Enzo Maresca needs to win this game. His objective is to finish in the top four and have a cup run this season. If Chelsea win this game, they automatically become title contenders. Then the expectations from this team changes, and I’m not sure it will suit them. We saw how Chelsea were front-runners around December last season and they suddenly fell off.”
“So can Chelsea beat Arsenal? I don’t think so. I’m a Chelsea fan and I watch this team all the time. I just don’t think Arsenal will lose this game. Chelsea have a very young team and are always up and down in terms of results. I don’t believe Chelsea have the experience to win a league title just yet.”
“This game will also witness the battle of Moises Caicedo and Declan Rice, two of the best midfielders in the world. I can’t wait to watch that battle! It will also be interesting to see what team Maresca will play. Could he be tempted into using a false nine like he did against Barcelona? Arsenal are better at the back, but I just think Chelsea can get a point.”
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What score has Merson predicted for Chelsea vs Arsenal?
The Sky Sports pundit has gone with a 1-1 draw, which is a scoreline that will disappoint some supporters who will be hoping that Enzo Maresca’s side could capitalise on home advantage.
You can’t take Arsenal lightly, though. The Gunners have lost just once so far this season, and that came in the last minute against Liverpool, when Dominik Szoboszlai scored an unstoppable free kick.
Chelsea vs Arsenal team news
Maresca has revealed that Cole Palmer is not only back available, but he could start on Sunday. Dario Essugo has returned to training much earlier than expected. The midfielder was set to be out until the New Year after suffering a thigh injury. Romeo Lavia (muscular) and Levi Colwill (ACL) remain on the treatment table.
Arsenal have doubts over the fitness of Leandro Trossard (muscular), Viktor Gyokeres (hamstring) and Kai Havertz (knee) while Gabriel (adductor) is unavailable.
Read more about the Chelsea First Team Squad for 2025/26 here