Arsenal vs Chelsea Preview

• Draw or Arsenal win
• Both teams to score

The biggest clash of the Premier League weekend unfolds in North London, where second-placed Arsenal host fourth-placed Chelsea in a game with major top-four implications.

The Gunners remain in a strong top-two position, but a three-match winless league run (D2, L1) has allowed third-place Manchester City to close the gap.

While Mikel Arteta’s men secured a dominant 9-3 aggregate win over PSV in the Champions League round of 16, their Premier League form needs a reset before they face Real Madrid in April.

Meanwhile, Chelsea come into this clash in excellent form, having won four consecutive matches across all competitions.

Their 1-0 midweek victory over Copenhagen secured their place in the UEFA Conference League quarter-finals, but their league position remains fragile—they sit just two points inside the top four, with seventh place only three points behind.

Can Arsenal reignite their league form, or will Chelsea break their away-day curse and strengthen their top-four position? Here’s a full match preview.

Arsenal’s Need for a Response

Arsenal’s dominance over PSV in the Champions League should provide a morale boost, but their league form has wobbled. Their three-game winless streak (D2, L1) has loosened their grip on second place, and with Manchester City chasing, they cannot afford to drop points here.

Arteta’s men haven’t gone four league games without a win since earlier this season, and the fourth game in that streak was the reverse fixture against Chelsea (1-1 draw).

A win here is crucial to restoring momentum before the international break, especially with a two-legged battle against Real Madrid looming next month.

Arsenal have reason to feel confident, though—they are unbeaten in six Premier League meetings with Chelsea (W4, D2). Playing at home should further aid their cause, as they have been exceptional at the Emirates this season, making this a prime opportunity to bounce back.

Chelsea’s Away Struggles Despite Good Form

While Chelsea arrive in good spirits following four consecutive wins, their away form in the league is a major concern. The Blues are winless in their last six Premier League away games (D2, L4), losing the last three in a row.

The last time Chelsea lost four consecutive away league matches was in December 2023, a streak they will be desperate to avoid repeating.

Enzo Maresca’s side have rediscovered their defensive resilience, keeping back-to-back clean sheets across domestic and European competitions, but they must prove they can perform away from Stamford Bridge.

Despite their recent struggles in this fixture, Chelsea have already held Arsenal to a draw this season (1-1 at Stamford Bridge) and will fancy their chances of causing an upset if they can contain Arsenal’s attack.

Head-to-Head Record: Arsenal’s Recent Dominance

• Last six league meetings: Arsenal W4, D2
• Reverse fixture result: Chelsea 1-1 Arsenal
• Chelsea’s away Premier League record: Winless in last six (D2, L4), lost last three
• Arsenal’s home record: One of the strongest in the league this season

Arsenal’s recent head-to-head superiority gives them the psychological edge, but Chelsea’s defensive improvement could make this a more competitive clash than previous encounters.

Key Players to Watch

Ethan Nwaneri (Arsenal)

The youngster could make history if he scores here, as no player under 18 has ever scored in a Premier League London derby.

Given his technical ability and eye for goal, he could play a crucial role, especially if Arsenal rotate their squad after their midweek Champions League exploits.

Marc Cucurella (Chelsea)

The Spanish full-back has been in goal-scoring form, netting in Chelsea’s last two Premier League matches.

Notably, none of his five goals this season have come before the 40th minute, making him a late-game threat. With his attacking contributions and defensive duties against Nwaneri or Saka, Cucurella could have a major influence on this contest.

Prediction: Can Arsenal End Their Winless Run?

Arsenal’s strong home form, coupled with Chelsea’s poor away record, suggests that the Gunners should be favourites to take all three points.

However, Chelsea’s recent defensive improvements and confidence from a four-match winning streak could make this a closer contest than expected.

Expect Arsenal to dominate possession, but Chelsea’s counter-attacking threat could make things difficult. However, the Gunners’ home advantage and superior head-to-head record should see them edge this encounter.

Predicted Score: Arsenal 2-1 Chelsea

Arsenal should end their winless streak, while Chelsea’s away struggles continue, keeping the top-four race wide open heading into the international break.

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Arsenal v Chelsea, 2024/25 | Premier League