Paul Scholes says Chelsea and United are out of Arsenal's title chase

On Sunday at the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal edged Chelsea 2‑1, prompting former midfielder Paul Scholes to declare that both Chelsea and Manchester United have no realistic chance of challenging Arsenal’s bid for the Premier League title this season, so far in the early stages.

Chelsea's early stumble

Chelsea's first defeat under Xabi Alonso arrived on Sunday, when Arsenal prevailed 2‑1 at the Emirates Stadium. Scholes highlighted the loss of Enzo Fernandez to Manchester City, calling him Chelsea’s best midfield option. He added that Caicedo remains unavailable and that Reece James, while capable, cannot sustain a full‑season midfield role.

United's mixed start

Manchester United opened the campaign with a 2‑0 loss away to Hull City. They bounced back at home, thrashing Ipswich Town 5‑2, before drawing 2‑2 with Everton last Sunday. Scholes said the results show United are unlikely to mount a title challenge.

Scholes believes United will secure a top‑four finish but lack the defensive solidity to rival Arsenal. He criticised the unchanged back four, saying it has not improved for years. He expects a new defensive line next summer if Michael Carrick remains in charge. He concluded, 'That's not Man United.'

The comments were made on The Good, The Bad and The Football podcast, where Scholes lamented Chelsea’s midfield choices. He argued that Chelsea could have blocked Fernandez’s exit and that their two‑full‑back midfield setup hampers consistency. Scholes praised the club for keeping its word on the transfer, a rarity in football.

Scholes praised United’s forward signings from the previous season, calling the overhaul ‘very good’. He added that the impact of this year’s midfield additions remains uncertain.

He also mentioned United’s midfield options, naming Andrey Santos and Carlos Baleba as players with potential. Scholes admitted their quality remains to be proven.

With Arsenal and Manchester City the only sides who have won all three of their Premier League games so far, Scholes predicts the title race will be a two‑horse contest. He urged fans to temper expectations for Chelsea and United as the season unfolds. Follow Metro Sport for further updates.