Cesc Fabregas says that Chelsea can think about retaining the title only if they make a fast start to the season like they did last time around. The blues were quick off the mark last campaign and it proved to be the difference in the end. However, they started the season poorly after a 2-2 draw with Swansea at home on the opening day. Fabregas played in that game and he was less influential than in the 3-1 win against Burnley on the opening day of last season. The form of the Spaniard will be a little worrying for Chelsea, as he has been on the downhill for the last eight months.

The team will have to recover quickly because they travel to the Etihad stadium in order to play against Manchester City, who have begun the season in the best possible manner after a 3-0 victory over West Brom. Even though new signing Raheem Sterling has not yet been on the scoresheet, there is a lot of promise from the existing stars like David Silva, Yaya Touré, and Sergio Aguero. They are expected to be the dominant force when Chelsea are the visitors next week. Fabregas will have to come in with a big performance if the blues are to get the first win of the season.

“We have to start strong because I am sure many teams want to do that. You always see the best football at the beginning of the season. Teams at the top and the bottom want to get as many points as they can at the start.In the beginning everyone wants to play football. But after that if you are a bit down or playing for the title, everyone becomes a little more rigid, well structured and more tactical rather than playing with open spaces,” said Fabregas.