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Things have changed since Arsenal met Chelsea in 2007. Rebecca Naden/PA Archive/Press Association Images

Mourinho talks up Arsenal title charge

The Chelsea boss says the Gunners have several players at the peak of their powers.

CHELSEA MANAGER JOSE Mourinho has talked up Arsenal’s title credentials ahead of Monday’s Premier League meeting between the two.

Arsene Wenger’s men can return to the top of the table by beating Chelsea, who have the opportunity to go level on points with leaders Liverpool, at the Emirates Stadium.

Arsenal last lifted the Premier League trophy in 2004, prior to Mourinho’s first spell in charge of Chelsea.

Yet the Portuguese feels his side now face a rival with greater self-belief, particularly after the arrival of Mesut Ozil from Real Madrid in the close-season.

“I think, in the deep of their souls, they (Arsenal) think they can (win the title). They believe they have the conditions to do it,” said Mourinho.

“In my previous time here, (Theo) Walcott was a kid. He’s now a man. Other players are in the best moment of their careers – (Jack) Wilshere, (Aaron) Ramsey and (Kieran) Gibbs.

“I’m not saying Mesut transformed the team completely. The manager and the club has given players conditions and time to have great stability in their evolution.

“And now, when you buy (Olivier) Giroud and now Ozil and some other players, the team becomes much better and ready to be doing what they are doing, which is to fight for the title.”

Arsenal and Chelsea are currently two of four sides, together with Liverpool and Manchester City, separated by just three points at the summit.

Yet Mourinho believes City have missed an opportunity to pull clear of the pack.

Fun

“I think in normal conditions Manchester City should be far from the others because of the squad, the maturity, the stability of the players, the potential of the striking force, the experience of the players. There is a difference,” he added.

“But the Premier League is being difficult for everybody, also for them.

“So in this moment, everybody is there. So, I think (it is) good fun.”

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8 Comments
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    Mute John Hayes
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    Dec 22nd 2013, 12:23 PM

    Poor old Jose even with Rafa gone cant bare to mention Liverpool. That’s the way I want it. And if the rest of my Pool fans can just hold their reigns on our title chances we’ll be alright. But in saying that if Liverpool get two positive results in the next two games people will have to sit up and take notice. United away with City Chelsea Spurs Everton and Arsenal all at home surely Liverpool will be in a fantastic position.

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    Mute Brian Gallagher
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    Dec 22nd 2013, 1:03 PM

    What’s this got to do with Liverpool?

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    Mute John Hayes
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    Dec 22nd 2013, 1:05 PM

    It’s ok Brian I wasn’t talking to you.

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    Mute Gazneville
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    Dec 22nd 2013, 1:26 PM

    What has it got to do with Liverpool. He was commenting on the impending game versus Arsenal…

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    Mute Aidan
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    Dec 22nd 2013, 2:12 PM

    John he can only answer the questions the journalists ask him, and the league doesn’t revolve around Liverpool anyway. He’ll say something about Liverpool before Chelsea play them next Sunday, if his opinion is that important to you.

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    Mute John Hayes
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    Dec 22nd 2013, 4:58 PM

    Aidan my point is he mentioned City too what’s that got to do with Arsenal Chelsea ? The thing is no one is giving Liverpool a mention or a prayer and thats the way I want it.

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    Mute John Michael
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    Dec 22nd 2013, 7:02 PM

    I think jimmy had one too many at lunchtime. Either that or he is just a prat all the time. Show some respect you clown.

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    Mute John Hayes
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    Dec 22nd 2013, 7:43 PM

    Jimmy you are as subtle as a bull in a china shop. Families lost loved ones in those tragedies have some respect. Is that a picture of Les Battersby ?

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