This weekend's game between Chelsea and Arsenal has a lot more riding on it than one would have expected even a few weeks back. The Blues have quietly managed to rebuild their faltering season and have climbed up to second in the Premier League table. Mikel Arteta's remain six points ahead of them and this matchup will be vital in terms of the title race.
If Chelsea win, the title race is well and truly on. On the other hand, if Arsenal get all three points, they might just run away with it. A draw might very well be the preferred result for all the teams looking to catch up with them.
Chelsea's injury problems have had an impact on them all season. Cole Palmer and Levi Colwill, two of their most important players, remain out alongside names like Romeo Lavia, Dario Essugo and others. At the same time though, Arsenal have started to pick up a few issues of their own.
A lot has been made about the absence of Gabriel, although it does not seem to be having much of an impact on them, judging from the 3-1 win against Bayern Munich. But now, they have another issue to potentially deal with after that midweek matchup.
Arsenal suffer another injury blow before facing Chelsea
As reported by the Independent, Leandro Trossard is a doubt for Arsenal’s match against Chelsea. He limped out of Bayern Munich in the first half with discomfort in his left leg.
It does not seem to be a long-term issue for Arsenal. But it is very possible that Trossard, who has been their biggest contributor this season in terms of goals and assists, could be absent against Chelsea.
That might lead to a start for Noni Madueke against his former side. He scored against Bayern Munich in midweek and has earned a lot of plaudits for his performances since leaving Chelsea. Of course, the Blues will be pretty happy with how his replacement, Estevao, has been doing as well.
Chelsea vs Arsenal used to be one of the biggest games in the Premier League calendar at one point in time. It has not felt like that for several years now. But it does look like we could be heading in that direction again if both teams continue on their respective trajectories. Mikel Arteta's side will be the favourites on Sunday, but you should not count out Enzo Maresca's men.