Chelsea’s Premier League title ambitions have become a subject of intense debate following their disappointing 2-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur, with contrasting opinions emerging over whether Xabi Alonso can guide the Blues into the title race.
One pundit believes Chelsea remain a long way from competing for the Premier League crown, arguing that the team’s latest performance exposed weaknesses that must be addressed before they can be considered serious contenders.
Questions have also been raised about Alonso’s selection decisions, particularly his choice to start Geovany Quenda ahead of Estevão and leave Danny Welbeck out of the starting line-up. The decisions have prompted debate over whether Chelsea had the right attacking balance to trouble Tottenham.
However, another pundit has refused to rule out Chelsea’s chances, insisting that the club still have reasons to remain optimistic about their season.
The argument centres on Chelsea’s lack of European football, which could give Alonso more time to prepare his squad between domestic fixtures. The possibility of strengthening the team during the January transfer window has also been highlighted as a factor that could improve their chances.
For Chelsea, the immediate priority will be responding positively to the defeat rather than allowing doubts to grow. Alonso will need to address the team's shortcomings, make the right tactical adjustments and find greater consistency if the Blues are to compete with the Premier League’s leading sides.
While the loss to Tottenham has intensified scrutiny of Chelsea’s progress, the debate over their title credentials remains open. Whether the Blues can turn their potential into a genuine challenge will depend on their performances in the coming months and the decisions made both on the pitch and in the transfer market.