Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images
Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images
The Chelsea Chronicle have spoken to Arsenal expert Shamanth Jayaram about this weekend’s huge London derby, with the Blues making the trip to the Emirates.
Xabi Alonso’s side have won three out of three games to start the season, however face a significant test in the form of the Premier League champions away from home.
The Blues have won just one game against the Gunners since 2019, with their record against the big sides being what has let them down in recent seasons.
Arsenal expert previews Chelsea vs Arsenal and Blues’ title credentials
There is optimism surrounding their efforts with Alonso at the helm though, even if Moises Caicedo is expected to miss out due to injury.
The Chelsea Chronicle spoke to Arsenal Insider’s Jayaram, who previewed Sunday’s game, as well as how seriously he is taking the Blues as a title threat this season.
“What have you made of Arsenal’s start to the season?”
“I couldn’t have asked for more, really. We had a poor pre-season in terms of results, so I was a little concerned going into the Community Shield clash against Manchester City. But we dominated them and have since picked up fairly comfortable wins over Coventry and Aston Villa.
“Our defence is as solid as ever, midfield feels a lot stronger, and Bukayo Saka looks like a new signing with two goals in two games. Great start, but Chelsea will be a tougher test.”
“How do you feel about Chelsea being a realistic title threat?”
“I’ve said this for months: Chelsea are Arsenal’s biggest title rivals this season. Playing mostly one game a week is a massive advantage and I rate Xabi Alonso so highly. My only concern was your goalkeeper, but since you’ve annoyingly signed Emi Martinez, Chelsea have a very, very realistic chance. It all depends on how you will react in March, April and May when the pressure kicks in.”
“What is your prediction for Arsenal vs Chelsea?”
“I hate doing predictions because they usually backfire. I know many are expecting a goal fest, but I actually think this will be a lot closer than everyone thinks. I’ll go with a 2-1 win for Arsenal, with Kai Havertz scoring both and celebrating in front of the away end. Sorry, Chelsea fans.”
Fulham v Chelsea FC - Premier League 2026/27
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Arsenal expert gutted they missed out on Morgan Rogers
We also asked Jayaram about Morgan Rogers, who was at one point expected to join Arsenal this summer before he eventually moved to Stamford Bridge.
He admitted that he has faith that the England international will become a ‘superstar’ in West London, and is frustrated his side didn’t secure the deal first.
He said: “In hindsight, I would say yes [Arsenal missed a trick]. £117m still feels like a lot, but multiple reports have claimed that we could’ve signed Rogers for around £100m if we acted faster. It’s such a shame that we didn’t, and it’s even more annoying that Chelsea snapped him up.
“I’m sure some Arsenal fans are hoping he will turn out to be another Mudryk, but I truly believe he’ll be a superstar for you guys.”