Petr Cech praises Arsenal’s defence but doubts they’ll break Chelsea’s record

Former Chelsea and Arsenal goalkeeper Petr Cech has praised Arsenal’s strong defensive start to the season but believes they will struggle to beat Chelsea’s long-standing Premier League record for the fewest goals conceded in a single campaign.

Petr Cech Makes Arsenal Prediction Over Chelsea’s Premier League Record

Arsenal have made a dominant start to the league, sitting four points clear at the top of the table and six points ahead of Liverpool.

Their defensive solidity has been a key factor, with Mikel Arteta’s men conceding only three goals in their first nine league matches.

The arrivals of Piero Hincapie and Cristhian Mosquera have further strengthened a backline already anchored by Gabriel and William Saliba.

At their current rate, Arsenal could finish the season with just 13 goals conceded — fewer than Chelsea’s iconic 2003/04 team that let in only 15 under Jose Mourinho.

That defensive unit, led by John Terry and Cech himself, remains one of the most celebrated in Premier League history.

Speaking in a TikTok video with former teammate Terry, Cech admitted that while Arsenal have started brilliantly, maintaining that level over an entire 38-game season will be a huge challenge.

“They’re doing really well, I have to say. It’s still early, but they’ve started strongly,” Cech said.

“If they carry on like that, they have a chance, but it’s very hard to keep that level for the whole season.

You also need a bit of luck. I think it will be tough for them to break our record, but I’ll be watching closely.”

Reflecting on Chelsea’s achievement, Cech said the record was built on teamwork and consistency.

“To concede only 15 goals in one season is incredible. Everyone contributed — we had a great structure and people who understood their roles perfectly,” he added.

Cech also praised Arsenal’s defensive focus under Arteta, saying it’s refreshing to see a modern team proud of keeping clean sheets.

“If you don’t concede, you only need one goal to win. Arsenal are showing that perfectly this season,” he concluded.