Arsenal legend Paul Merson has strongly voiced his belief that Chelsea deserve greater recognition as genuine Premier League title contenders. Speaking on TalkTalk Nigeria, Merson criticized statistical odds that give the Blues only a 5.8% chance of winning the title, especially considering their impressive league standing.

Under manager Enzo Maresca, Chelsea currently hold second place in the Premier League, trailing leaders Liverpool by three points. If the Blues triumph over Everton on Sunday, they could briefly top the table, further solidifying their credentials as title challengers.

Merson said, “Well, that 5.8% needs to be bigger, whatever happens. That’s ridiculous. Arsenal are in it, and I’d definitely be having Chelsea at more than 5.8%.”

Chelsea’s rise in form has come through solid tactical management and standout performances from key players like Raheem Sterling and Christopher Nkunku. Their balanced approach of defensive solidity paired with attacking flair has turned them into a team to watch this season.

Arsenal and Liverpool in the Mix

On Saturday, Arsenal reminded everyone of their strength with a commanding 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace, reducing the gap between themselves and Chelsea to just one point. Liverpool, meanwhile, remain at the top with an impressive 80.2% chance of lifting the trophy, according to Opta. Arsenal are rated at 13.2%.

However, Merson argued that these odds do not reflect Chelsea’s current momentum and their potential to challenge the top two teams.

The Numbers Don’t Tell the Whole Story

Opta’s percentages lean heavily in favor of Liverpool, whose consistent performances and squad depth have made them early favorites. Arsenal’s 13.2% reflects their solid form and title ambition under Mikel Arteta. Chelsea, on the other hand, seem undervalued in Merson’s eyes, given their strong second-place position.

What’s Next for Chelsea?

With the league heating up, Chelsea must continue to prove their mettle in upcoming matches. A win against Everton on Sunday could not only boost their title chances but also send a strong message to critics doubting their ability to sustain their form.

Merson’s Takeaway

Merson’s remarks serve as a rallying cry for Chelsea fans and a reminder that the Premier League title race remains wide open. While statistics provide an intriguing perspective, the unpredictable nature of football means Chelsea still have a significant role to play in this season’s drama.

As Chelsea push forward, Merson’s confidence in their ability to challenge for the title adds an extra layer of excitement to what promises to be a thrilling campaign.