The Premier League’s most explosive London derby in years just got a whole lot spicier.
Chelsea vs Arsenal this weekend was already shaping up to be a genuine title-race six-pointer. The Blues have silently stormed their way back into contention and now sit second, just six points behind Mikel Arteta’s leaders. A Chelsea victory at Stamford Bridge would slash that gap to three points and blow the title race wide open. A draw keeps Arsenal in control. An Arsenal win? They could disappear over the horizon.
But late drama from midweek has just tilted the scales dramatically in Chelsea’s favour.
Leandro Trossard, Arsenal’s most dangerous attacking player this season by a mile (goals + assists leader), limped off in the first half against Bayern Munich with discomfort in his left leg. According to the Independent, the Belgian is now a serious doubt for Sunday’s showdown. It’s not thought to be long-term, but missing their creative talisman against a resurgent Chelsea side is the last thing Arteta needed.
With Gabriel already sidelined (even if Arsenal have coped admirably without him so far) and now Trossard in major doubt, the Gunners are suddenly staring at a lineup nightmare just days before their biggest domestic test of the season.
Meanwhile, Chelsea will still be without Cole Palmer, Levi Colwill, Romeo Lavia and others, but Enzo Maresca’s side have found a way to click in recent weeks and the possible absence of Trossard feels like a gift from the footballing gods.
If Trossard is ruled out, expect Noni Madueke – yes, the same Noni who left Chelsea for Arsenal – to start against his old club after his midweek strike against Bayern. Irony levels: off the charts. The Blues, of course, couldn’t care less – they’ve got Brazilian wonderkid Estêvão lighting up Palmer’s old role and looking every bit the £50m+ bargain.
Once upon a time, Chelsea vs Arsenal was the fixture that stopped the nation. For a few years it lost its shine. Not anymore. Second vs first, two of the league’s most exciting projects, and now a massive injury twist that could hand the initiative straight back to the Blues.
Mikel Arteta’s men will still start as slight favourites, but make no mistake – this is Chelsea’s golden chance to land a statement blow in the title race.
Buckle up. The London derby is back, and it’s absolutely massive.