Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca sends blunt Premier League title race message to Arsenal

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has dismissed any notion of his side being in the title race, despite their recent form. The Blues are currently level on points with Arsenal but nine points adrift of league leaders Liverpool.

Both Chelsea and Liverpool have been on a hot streak over their last five matches, remaining unbeaten, with Liverpool not having lost in nine league games. Liverpool's victory over Manchester City on Sunday has widened their lead over the reigning champions to 11 points.

Meanwhile, Chelsea and Arsenal climbed above Guardiola's team after securing wins against Aston Villa and West Ham, respectively. Yet, Maresca, who once worked alongside Guardiola at City, is adamant that title discussions are premature for Chelsea.

When pressed on whether he still views his team outside the title contention, he firmly stated: "Absolutely. Arsenal have been there in the last two years close to Man City and we have been very far from City. To be in the title race is a nice pressure for me and the players, we like that pressure.

"But it is not our case because Arsenal in the last two years they have been there with Liverpool and City and we were not there. Hopefully soon, we can be there."

Arsenal - unbeaten in three Premier League matches - are set to face Manchester United on Wednesday, while Chelsea will be heading to Southampton. Liverpool, meanwhile, take on Newcastle United at St James' Park.

The Gunners then face Fulham on Sunday as Chelsea travel to Tottenham following Liverpool's final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park on Saturday lunchtime.