Chelsea’s poor record against top Premier League teams underlines a serious mentality issue, with the squad failing to deliver in big matches. Their 1-0 defeat to Arsenal was the latest in a series of disappointing performances, leaving Champions League qualification at risk.
Despite sitting fourth in the Premier League, Chelsea’s struggles in high-stakes games have exposed a mental block within the squad. Under Roman Abramovich, Chelsea thrived in clashes with the league’s elite. Now, under the Todd Boehly-Clearlake ownership, they have managed just one win in 26 games against Manchester City, Liverpool, Arsenal, and Manchester United—a last-minute victory over United in April.
Maresca’s side has shown signs of improvement in individual games, such as a dramatic comeback against Spurs and draws with Arsenal and United earlier this season. However, the overall trend remains concerning. The defeat to Arsenal was a continuation of Chelsea’s timid approach in big fixtures, where they failed to register a single touch in the opposition box for the first 30 minutes.
The club’s youth-driven transfer policy has created an exciting long-term project, but the lack of experienced leaders is evident in high-pressure moments. Chelsea’s upcoming clashes with Tottenham, Liverpool, and Manchester United could define their season, and they must find a way to turn performances into results.
