While Chelsea were always likely to be installed as favourites for the Premier League title at the beginning of the season after their excellent work in the summer transfer window, few could have predicted their serene progress to the top of the table. Unbeaten and four points clear of second place Southampton after their 2-1 victory over Liverpool at Anfield this weekend, the bookmakers have universally slashed their prices and it seems to be only a matter of time before they stop taking bets completely.
The best odds now available for Chelsea to claim the Premier League crown are less than generous at 2/9, giving the impression that the title race is already little more than a foregone conclusion.
With this in mind, is there any hope for the rest of the Premier League this season?
While Chelsea’s impressive squad boasts depth, strength, pace and flair in abundance, it already appears as though their season will hinge largely on the goal scoring process of Spanish striker Diego Costa. Given that the Brazilian born forward has already struggled with a recurring hamstring issue, a prolonged absence from the team could hinder the Blues’ title chances. Beyond injury and untimely suspensions, however, it is hard to see a fault in the Chelsea line-up.
If there is to be malfunction in the well-oiled Chelsea machine, however, which team is most likely to capitalise?
The bookmakers suggest that defending champions Manchester City would be the equipped to profit, with some offering odds of 6/1 that the Sky Blues will ultimately reclaim their crown. They certainly have the star power to achieve this aim, and if they keep Sergio Aguero fit and get the most out of Yaya Toure then they may yet reign in Chelsea and recover the existing eight point gap.
For fans of an outside bet, Louis Van Gaal’s Manchester United may be worth a small flutter. While they cannot be backed at anything less than 40/1, they have the strong leadership and world class talent to at least the challenge the dominance of the top two.