Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien is of firm belief that Manchester City is the club to challenge the Blues for the title this season.
Essien is aware it is only very early in the season but feels that City have the squad to really pose a genuine threat to the high-flying league leaders.
"There is still a long way to go," the Ghanaian said.
"The season is very long and we have to keep playing like we did against Arsenal and keep getting points.
"We led for much of last season but last season is gone. We have a new season now and it will be decided at the end.
"Manchester City are our closest challengers right now. You can see they made good signings and they will be up for it.
"We will see what happens. I don't know if they will have the stamina but they have the players to go out and do the job.
"Maybe we have an advantage because we know what it takes to win the league but every season is different. We have to keep going.
"The rest of the teams are there and will be fighting for it. It is up to us to get as many points as we can."
