Chelsea start 2005 in pole position to win their first league title in 50 years. Arsenal and Manchester United are close behind, hoping the Londoners emulate their slumps this season.
While the rest of European soccer rests, the Premier League will play its third game in seven days on New Year’s Day.
Chelsea head the standings at the end of 2004, but Arsenal are seeking to defend their league title for the first time since 1934 and Manchester United are keen to prove they’re not a spent force after a poor start this season.
“Their pressure is bigger than ours,” Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho said. “They have to win and wait for our mistake. We don’t have to wait for their mistake, we just have to get our results. Since we’ve been top of the league (on Nov. 6), we haven’t lost a game.” Mourinho was confident of his side’s determination.
“My players believe they can win the league and at this moment they don’t need me to believe that,” Mourinho said.
{{/usCountry}}“My players believe they can win the league and at this moment they don’t need me to believe that,” Mourinho said.
{{/usCountry}}“With their self-confidence and the way they feel and work, and the way they go to every match, they don’t need me for that belief."