it Could Be Their Downfall”—Former Chelsea player warns Maresca on concern about current team
Chelsea’s impressive start to the Premier League season has firmly established them as genuine title contenders under the management of Enzo Maresca. With the team currently sitting in second place, just two points behind league leaders Liverpool and maintaining a four-point lead over Arsenal, their performances have displayed a mix of promise and consistency. However, former Chelsea and England defender Glen Johnson has expressed concerns that could hinder their championship ambitions.
Johnson has emphasized that Chelsea’s defense remains a critical weakness, despite their otherwise strong displays. This vulnerability was evident even in their hard-fought 2-1 victory against Brentford on Sunday, where goals from Marc Cucurella and Nicolas Jackson kept the pressure on Liverpool. While the win showcased Chelsea’s ability to secure crucial points, Johnson’s comments draw attention to an issue that could become problematic as the season progresses.
“Chelsea’s defense could ultimately be their undoing in the title race,” Johnson observed. “Take the Tottenham game as an example. It was exciting to watch, but Chelsea didn’t dominate; they simply made fewer mistakes than Tottenham. Against the very best teams, you’re not going to recover by scoring four goals after falling 2-0 behind. Elite sides would close the game down, and that’s where Chelsea’s weaknesses could cost them the league.”
These concerns resonate with a segment of Chelsea’s fanbase, many of whom have expressed similar apprehensions about the team’s defensive instability. While Chelsea has shown commendable resilience and the ability to rally in difficult matches, moments of defensive fragility remain a recurring issue. These lapses could prove especially costly when facing the league’s top-tier opponents.
To bolster their title hopes, Chelsea might need to explore the transfer market for an experienced center-back and perhaps a new goalkeeper to serve as a first-choice option. Although the current squad is rich in talent and potential, it lacks the defensive solidity that is often a hallmark of championship-winning teams.
Under Maresca’s leadership, Chelsea’s growth as a unit is evident, and their aspirations of winning the league seem realistic. However, the demands of the Premier League require unwavering consistency and strength in every area of the team. Addressing these defensive shortcomings could be the decisive factor in sustaining their current momentum and maintaining their position among the league’s top contenders.
