Arsenal legend, Ian Wright has identified Chelsea as the team he believes will present the greatest challenge to the Gunners’ Premier League title defence in the 2026–27 season.
Following three consecutive second-place finish in the EPL (2023–25), Mikel Arteta successfully guided the north London club to the championship in the 2025–26 season.
They boasted the league’s strongest defence, conceded only 27 goals over 38 matches, and concluded the season with 85 points, seven points ahead of second-placed Manchester City.
This summer, Arsenal have signed Brazilian midfielder, Bruno Guimarães from Newcastle United and Greek winger, Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge.
With enhanced quality and depth in their squad, along with a 3–0 victory over Manchester City in the FA Community Shield, they appear poised to defend their EPL title.
However, Wright has indicated that the Gunners must complete additional transfers before the transfer window closes.
The former player suggested that Chelsea could emerge as serious contenders for the Premier League title if their newly appointed manager, Xabi Alonso, “starts well”.
The 62-year-old remarked via Metro: “Arsenal still has significant business to conduct, and progress has been slow thus far. (Manchester) City, Chelsea and Liverpool all have new managers, which introduces an element of uncertainty.
“This season represents a major transition for City: no Bernardo Silva, (John) Stones, Pep (Guardiola) or Rodri. Nevertheless, they possess (Erling) Haaland, which can carry them far despite other challenges.
“I fancy Chelsea to challenge if Alonso gets a good start and is able to make them more solid defensively. [They] have brought in some experienced players, which they’ve needed for a while. I can see them getting into a good rhythm without European football.”
According to The Athletic, Arteta aims to secure a defender and an attacker for his squad before the transfer deadline on August 31.