Former Liverpool defender and Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher has delivered a scathing assessment of Chelsea Football Club’s Premier League prospects, stating unequivocally that the current squad “cannot win the league.”
Speaking during a live broadcast on Sky Sports, Carragher praised manager Enzo Maresca’s tactical approach and recent achievements, including Champions League qualification and a dominant Club World Cup performance. However, he expressed deep concern over the club’s recruitment strategy and squad composition, particularly in key defensive positions.
“My big problem with Chelsea is not Maresca himself but how, after three and a half years and significant expenditure, the team still features the goalkeeper and centre-backs currently starting. That cannot win you the league,” Carragher said.
He emphasized the importance of elite goalkeeping and defensive solidity, referencing past title-winning Chelsea teams anchored by legends like Petr Čech and Thibaut Courtois. Carragher argued that the current setup, including goalkeeper Robert Sánchez and an injury-hit backline, lacks the quality and consistency required to challenge for top honors.
Jermaine Pennant, another former Liverpool player, echoed Carragher’s sentiments, criticizing Chelsea’s failure to pursue a summer move for defender Marc Guehi, which he believes could have addressed glaring defensive weaknesses.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca responded diplomatically, stating, “Anyone can say what they decide to say. It’s not a problem. I think we improved a lot last season… The main target is to continue to improve players, improve the team, and try to close that gap.”