Chelsea’s struggles continued with a 1-0 defeat to Arsenal, as Mikel Merino’s first-half header proved decisive in a lacklustre London derby. With four losses in their last seven league games, Chelsea’s grip on a Champions League spot is now under serious threat, with Newcastle just two points behind and holding a game in hand.
Arsenal claimed a narrow victory over Chelsea at the Emirates, tightening their hold on second place in the Premier League. Mikel Merino’s clever near-post header in the 20th minute was enough to separate the two sides in a match that failed to live up to expectations. Chelsea, missing their influential playmaker Cole Palmer, lacked attacking urgency and struggled to create clear-cut chances throughout the game.
Chelsea’s lack of rhythm was compounded by Enzo Maresca’s surprising selections, including restoring Robert Sánchez in goal and deploying Reece James in midfield. Defensive lapses and hesitant play allowed Arsenal to dominate the early exchanges, with Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard both coming close before Merino’s goal.
The Blues improved slightly in the second half but failed to break down Arsenal’s defence, with Marc Cucurella’s late header their only real chance inside the box. As their Champions League qualification hopes weaken, Maresca must quickly find solutions to halt Chelsea’s recent slump.
