Cesc Fabregas predicts the titles race of Arsenal and Chelsea this season.
Cesc Fabregas feels Arsenal’s summer purchases have strengthened them and can fuel another title campaign, however he believes Chelsea will take a little longer to reach the same level.
The Gunners spent over £200 million to buy Declan Rice, Kai Havertz, and Jurrien Timber and have started the season unbeaten, but they did lose two points at home to 10-man Fulham on Saturday.
Fabregas believes club-record transfer Rice is a particularly game-changing addition to Arsenal’s ranks, and he believes his old team will once again push Manchester City all the way.
Cesc Fabregas predicts the titles race of Arsenal and Chelsea this season.
When asked if the north Londoners will challenge for the trophy again after their summer spending binge, Fabregas told Sky Sports: ‘They will compete for the title again, 100%.
‘I view Arsenal as being stronger than they were last year, and I believe they will push them [Manchester City] even further.
‘So, if they want to win a title, I think they’ll have to work even harder than they did last year, which they did pretty well.’
‘Fantastic,’ he said of Rice. His personality and quality are immediately apparent. He has already added a fresh dimension to the team.
‘He’s one of those guys who, because he’s so brilliant, doesn’t require much time to adjust to the philosophy or whatever it is they’re doing.
‘As I have stated, he has the personality to play for a major team. I’ve been watching him for a few seasons at West Ham, and he has the potential to be a fantastic leader for Arsenal.’
Fabregas has been impressed with Chelsea’s business, particularly their midfield signings, but believes it will take some time for the Blues to reach a level where they can compete for honours.
‘I absolutely see what they’re trying to do, a very youthful, dynamic club that is strong, powerful, and ready to contend for the Premier League in a couple of years,’ he continued.
‘The names and players they’ve signed are of the highest calibre. It’s now a matter of putting them together, allowing them to mature, and allowing them to adjust to a new league.
‘For example, Enzo Fernandez had half a season last year and will improve this year.
‘Moises Caicedo is a top, top player who has been coached by a wonderful, fantastic manager like Roberto De Zerbi.
‘So there are a lot of positives in there, and maybe not this year – you never know – but I think they’ll be ready to compete again next year.’
