The top four race has taken yet another twist as Chelsea suffered a shocking 4-1 thrashing to Brentford. Before the international break Chelsea were on a great run, beating teams like Tottenham Hotspur and Crystal Palace. Thomas Tuchel’s side had won their last five games in the Premier League, conceding just one goal. This is why it comes as even more of a shock that Thomas Frank’s side managed to put four into the Blues’ net.
Brentford Blow Top Four Race Wide Open With Chelsea Thrashing
Chelsea Look Shaky
Despite dominating the ball, Chelsea were unable to make many clear cut chances. Their only goal was scored from nearly 40 yards out by Antonio Rudiger. Besides this beauty of a strike, the Chelsea attack failed to create chances as they usually do. Tuchel attempted to fix this by bringing on Reece James early in the second-half but he wasn’t able to make the difference he usually makes.
On the other side of the pitch, Brentford took their chances with great confidence. All four goals were well worked. The Brentford attack slipped through the Chelsea defence almost effortlessly at times. The Blues didn’t help themselves and looked extremely vulnerable defensively.
Arsenal Will Look to Close the Gap
After a poor start to the season, Mikel Arteta has got Arsenal playing some of the best football in the Premier League. The Gunners seem likely to secure a top four spot but they could be looking for an even higher finish after Chelsea have shown signs of vulnerability. Arsenal are only five points behind Chelsea with a game to play. Arteta’s side are scheduled to play this fixture later this gameweek at Selhurst Park. They have only lost two league games in 2022 to the hands of Manchester City and Liverpool. Arteta’s side will definitely fancy their chances to close the gap on Chelsea with a win over Crystal Palace.
Top Four Still Open to Other Clubs
Although it seems tough, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur still believe they can push for a top four spot. Ralf Rangnick’s side were held to a 1-1 draw against Leicester City. The Red Devils would have hoped to capitalise on Chelsea’s loss but were unable to beat a stubborn Leicester side.
Meanwhile Tottenham smashed Newcastle United later in the gameweek. Newcastle were on an outstanding run of form since strengthening their squad in the January transfer window, but could not stand in the way of Antonio Conte’s resurged side.
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