Chelsea has made a strong start to the Premier League season, positioning themselves as serious title contenders under the leadership of manager Enzo Maresca.
Currently second in the league standings, they trail leaders Liverpool by just two points and maintain a four-point lead over Arsenal.
This promising form has sparked optimism among fans and pundits alike.
However, former Chelsea and England defender Glen Johnson has expressed concerns about a significant weakness that could undermine their title challenge.
Johnson has identified Chelsea’s defense as a potential Achilles’ heel, despite their overall impressive performances.
Following their hard-fought 2-1 victory against Brentford, which saw Marc Cucurella and Nicolas Jackson find the net, Chelsea have kept pressure on Liverpool.
However, Johnson’s critique has highlighted defensive lapses that may hinder their ability to compete at the very top.
“Chelsea’s defense could be their undoing in the title race,” Johnson warned.
“The Tottenham game was entertaining, but Chelsea didn’t dominate; they just capitalized on Tottenham’s mistakes.
Against elite teams, you won’t score four goals after going 2-0 down.
Top sides know how to shut you out, and that’s what separates champions from the rest.”
Johnson’s concerns align with those of some Chelsea supporters, who have voiced similar worries about the team’s defensive stability.
While Chelsea has shown determination and a fighting spirit in difficult games, their defense has been vulnerable at times, leaving them susceptible to conceding goals against stronger opposition.
To strengthen their title credentials, Chelsea may need to bolster their squad with an experienced center-back and possibly a new first-choice goalkeeper.
Although the current team boasts significant talent and potential, it lacks the defensive solidity typically seen in championship-winning sides.
Addressing these issues could be crucial as they aim to keep pace with Liverpool and other title rivals.
Under Maresca’s management, Chelsea’s progress this season has been evident, and their ambitions to contend for the title appear well-founded.
However, the demanding nature of the Premier League requires consistency and strength in all areas of play.
If Chelsea can address their defensive weaknesses, they could sustain their momentum and firmly establish themselves as serious contenders in the race for the Premier League crown.
For now, though, their defensive fragility remains a pressing concern that must be resolved to maintain their position at the top.
