Theo Walcott thinks Chelsea are serious title contenders after their recent 1-1 draw with Arsenal. The former England and Arsenal star believes the Blues have what it takes to challenge the Gunners despite their disciplinary problems.
"Yes, I think they are serious challengers," Walcott said on the It's Called Soccer podcast. "However, their disciplinary problem is a big issue. The red cards are holding them back, similar to Arsenal last season."
Walcott was particularly impressed with how Chelsea exposed Arsenal's weaknesses. He pointed out that Arsenal looked unusually vulnerable without their regular center-backs.
Chelsea's Title Credentials Growing
Chelsea currently sit third in the Premier League table. They're six points behind leaders Arsenal and five behind second-placed Manchester City after 13 matches.
Walcott isn't the only former player backing Chelsea in the title race. John Terry recently wrote off Liverpool's chances while talking up his former club on TikTok.
"I'm not saying it's going to be a title decider but I think it's going to be one of the two teams [Chelsea or Arsenal] who win the league," Terry said. "For me, Liverpool are 100 per cent out of the title race."
This growing confidence in Chelsea could influence betting markets as the season progresses. The Blues weren't considered serious contenders at the start of the season, but their form under Enzo Maresca has changed perceptions.
Not Everyone Is Convinced
Micah Richards has a different view on Chelsea's title hopes. The former Manchester City defender believes only his old club can truly challenge Arsenal this season.
"I think Chelsea can challenge them, but I don't think they'll have enough," Richards said on The Rest Is Football podcast. "Man City are still the ones who can challenge them all the way."
Richards highlighted City's attacking firepower as the key factor. He mentioned that even when Erling Haaland doesn't score, players like Phil Foden can step up.
Manchester City have already faced Arsenal this season in a 1-1 draw. They're yet to play Chelsea, which could be a crucial fixture in determining the title race outcome.
The disciplinary issues Walcott mentioned could prove decisive for Chelsea's chances. Missing key players like Moises Caicedo through suspension might cost them valuable points in the tight title race.
For bettors looking at the Premier League winner market, Chelsea's odds are likely to shorten if they maintain their form in the coming weeks. However, their disciplinary record remains a concern that could impact their consistency over a long season.
