Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca shares his Premier League title prediction: ‘They’ll be contenders.’

Enzo Maresca has expressed confidence in Manchester City’s ability to recover after Christmas and rejoin the Premier League title race. Despite a poor title defense this season, with only one win in their last 12 games, City currently sit seventh in the league, 12 points behind leaders Liverpool, who also have a game in hand. Chelsea, managed by Maresca, are in second place, four points behind Liverpool.

Maresca has downplayed Chelsea’s title chances, instead backing Pep Guardiola’s side to bounce back. “Manchester City will be there in the end,” he said. “They are facing a situation they’ve never experienced before, with constant injuries and players not fully fit. It’s a tough period for them, but they’ll recover.”

He also acknowledged Chelsea’s progress but stressed their focus is on development rather than title expectations. “We’ve exceeded expectations in terms of performances and points, but the priority is improving the players and the team. The reality is we’re second at the halfway point, which reflects where we are. Liverpool have been outstanding, and their experience in winning trophies shows. We’re happy with our position but know there’s still work to do.”

Chelsea will host Fulham on Boxing Day, aiming to cut Liverpool’s lead to just one point. Fulham manager Marco Silva anticipates a tough game, praising Chelsea’s quality and dominance this season. “They’ve spent heavily and built a strong, confident team with many talented young players. It will be another big challenge for us,” he

said.