Ex-Chelsea defender William Gallas doesn’t believe a win against Arsenal this weekend would put Enzo Maresca’s side in the title race.

However, speaking to Prime Casino, Gallas said it would definitely strengthen the Blues’ chances of securing Champions League qualification:

“No, I don’t think a victory over Arsenal puts Chelsea in the title race. They will be close. If they win, it means they are in the top four, and that means Arsenal is going to drop down the league. Seriously, if Chelsea win this game, I think it would be really, really difficult for Arsenal.”

Chelsea are level on points with their London rivals heading into Sunday’s clash at Stamford Bridge. They are already above them on goal difference but a victory would not only move them clear of the Gunners but cement their belief that the team can compete with the best teams in the division.

Maresca’s side have struggled in games against the ‘Big Six’

Chelsea have lost to Manchester City and Liverpool already this campaign, while they only managed a draw against Manchester United at Old Trafford last weekend.

It could be argued that the Blues performed well in all of those fixtures without getting the rub of the green, but they will be keen to get their first victory of the season against one of the so-called ‘Big Six’.

Are Chelsea genuine title contenders?

The fact that Maresca’s team are currently 7 points adrift of leaders Liverpool would suggest that Gallas is right to play down their prospects of finishing 1st.

Their title odds are pretty long too. Although they are fourth favourites, the shortest price you will get for Chelsea to win the league is 16/1.

Opta’s Supercomputer suggests they have a 0.3% chance of taking top spot, but they have a more than 50% chance of securing Champions League football.