Paul Merson shares his score prediction for the crucial match between Chelsea and Arsenal…

Paul Merson shares his prediction for the scoreline in the crucial encounter between Chelsea and Arsenal.

Arsenal is set to visit Stamford Bridge for a pivotal clash against Chelsea, which has become essential for the Gunners to stay in contention for the Premier League title.

Mikel Arteta’s team has struggled recently, suffering defeats in two of their last three league matches and facing a 1-0 loss to Inter Milan in European competition, marking a disappointing stretch across all tournaments.

In contrast, Chelsea has shown improvement under Enzo Maresca and is currently tied on points with Arsenal, aiming to deepen the Gunners’ woes.

Merson anticipates an engaging match and has shared his prediction for the outcome.

Paul Merson forecasts a draw between Chelsea and Arsenal.

With Liverpool and Manchester City playing earlier in the day, Arsenal will feel the pressure if both teams secure victories.

Merson believes that if his former club fails to win this match, they will effectively be out of the title race, although he predicts a 2-2 draw due to Arsenal’s recent struggles.

“This is a significant match, especially since by kickoff, both Manchester City and Liverpool will have already played,” Merson noted in his column for Sportskeeda.

“If Liverpool wins, they could lead by ten points, and City could extend their advantage to eight points if Arsenal loses to Chelsea.

“Arsenal was fortunate last weekend when City stumbled against Bournemouth, but they shouldn’t expect any such luck this time. This is a must-win for Arsenal.

“If you find yourself ten and eight points behind Liverpool and City after this matchweek, your title hopes are effectively over! It doesn’t matter if there are still 27 games left; Liverpool and City are unlikely to drop that many points.

“I’m predicting a draw here; it would be a significant result for Chelsea, but Arsenal would be out of the title race.”

What was the outcome of last season’s match between Arsenal and Chelsea?

The previous encounter ended in a 2-2 draw, showcasing a fiercely contested match.

Arsenal secured a decisive 5-0 victory in the reverse fixture held in April, with Kai Havertz and Ben White each netting two goals following Leandro Trossard’s opening goal just four minutes into the match.