‘I don’t care’… Paul Merson gives brutal Premier League title verdict ahead of Chelsea vs Arsenal

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Arsenal are set to face Chelsea in a crunch Premier League clash, with their title hopes at stake.

Mikel Arteta’s side have struggled for form in recent weeks, and are already seven points behind league leaders Liverpool.

Arsenal have even slipped behind Chelsea on goal difference, and Arteta has praised the impact Enzo Maresca has had on his squad.

Another defeat on the road for Arsenal will surely rule them out of title contention, but Stamford Bridge is not an easy place to go even in the best of times.

Arsenal legend Paul Merson has now claimed that if Arteta’s side do not win at Chelsea, they can forget about the Premier League title.

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Paul Merson claims Chelsea game is crucial for Arsenal title chances

Speaking to Sportskeeda, Merson has claimed that even with 27 games to go after the trip to face Chelsea, anything other than a win would rule Arsenal out of the title race.

“This is a massive football match, especially because by the time it kicks off both Manchester City and Liverpool would have already played, Merson explained.

“Liverpool could go 10 points ahead, City could open up an eight point lead, if Arsenal lose to Chelsea. Arsenal got lucky last weekend after City also slipped up against Bournemouth. But they won’t expect any such favours this weekend.”

Merson has added that there can be no room for positivity if Arsenal do not come away with all three points.

“It’s a must-win game for Arsenal. If you are 10 and eight points behind Liverpool and City after this gameweek, you’re done in the title race!” He added.

“I don’t care if there are 27 games still left in the season, Liverpool and City are not losing that many games.”

Arsenal cannot afford to lose against Chelsea

The noise around Arsenal is increasing after their recent poor run of form, and they are well behind where they needed to be in terms of both performances and results.

A loss to Chelsea would be hugely damaging, both in terms of points as well as psychologically. Chelsea were levels behind Arsenal in the last two seasons, but a first loss to them since 2021, which would see the hosts open up a gap in the table, would be damning for Arteta’s title hopes.

Arsenal know they need to come up with a big performance, and victory in West London could help kick-start their season, in what would be a much-needed boost.