14 games in: Liverpool or Chelsea – who has been the bigger surprise this season?

As we approach the midway point of the Premier League season, the narratives surrounding Liverpool and Chelsea are captivating for contrasting reasons.

Both clubs entered the campaign with new managers – Liverpool under Arne Slot and Chelsea led by Enzo Maresca – yet the way they’ve exceeded expectations demands a closer look.

Liverpool: Back in the title conversation

Following last season’s underwhelming third-place finish, few people would have predicted Liverpool’s current position.

The Reds have rediscovered their dominance under Slot. They are top of the Premier League, seven points clear of Arsenal and Chelsea, and nine ahead of reigning champions Manchester City.

Slot’s philosophy has reinvigorated Liverpool, blending high-intensity pressing with tactical flexibility.

Mohamed Salah remains the talisman, already notching 13 league goals. The resurgence of Curtis Jones and Cody Gakpo’s growing influence has transformed Liverpool into a multifaceted attacking force.

Resilience has been a defining feature of their campaign. Their thrilling 3-3 draw at Newcastle United showcased a team unwilling to fold, even in adversity.

Coming back from behind twice and nearly winning exemplified a championship-winning mentality despite the late error from Caoimhin Kelleher that cost them two points.

Vulnerabilities undoubtedly remain. Defensive lapses and moments of sloppiness have prevented them from being entirely dominant.

However, considering the malaise of last season, Liverpool’s resurgence under Slot feels like a remarkable turnaround.

Chelsea: From chaos to contenders

Chelsea’s surprise lies in their transformation under Maresca. After finishing a dismal sixth last season and enduring a chaotic summer, expectations were modest.

The Blues are second in the league after 14 games and look far more cohesive than anyone anticipated.

Maresca has instilled clarity in a side that once appeared directionless. By implementing a possession-based approach, he has brought the best out of Nicolas Jackson and Enzo Fernandez.

Meanwhile, young talents such as Cole Palmer and Levi Colwill have flourished, proving the blend of youth and experience can work effectively.

What makes Chelsea’s improvement even more surprising is the adversity they’ve faced. Injuries to Reece James and Christopher Nkunku could have derailed their season, but Maresca’s tactical flexibility has kept them competitive.

While Chelsea have been impressive, there are lingering doubts about their consistency. Dropped points in winnable games and occasional over-reliance on moments of individual brilliance suggest they remain a work in progress.

However, considering their starting point, Chelsea’s progression is nothing short of extraordinary.

The verdict

Liverpool’s return to the summit of English football has been impressive, showcasing how quickly Slot’s methods have taken root. However, Chelsea’s transformation feels like the bigger surprise.

From a fractured, underperforming squad to genuine title contenders in a few months, Maresca has performed a remarkable turnaround.

Both sides have exceeded expectations, but Chelsea’s ability to defy their chaotic recent history and compete at the top edges them ahead – for now.

The months ahead will determine whether either side can sustain their momentum.