Chelsea boss Antonio Conte has backed Arsenal to challenge for the Premier League title during the upcoming campaign.
The Gunners missed out on a top-four spot for the first time in Arsene Wenger's 21-year reign last season, eventually finishing fifth in the table and a full 18 points adrift of Conte's champions.
Despite breaking their club record to bring in Alexandre Lacazette, Arsenal's spending this summer has been less substantial than some of their direct rivals, but Conte is still expecting Wenger's side to be challenging at the top of the table.
"Arsenal is a potential rival this season. I consider Arsenal one of the six teams ready to fight to win the title. I consider Arsene Wenger one of the best coaches. He had a lot of time to build his team, his squad. I'm not surprised [Wenger stayed]. Arsene Wenger is one of the best in the world and Arsenal is one of the best teams," he told reporters.
"In England it's very difficult to repeat and to win. In England you win the title and the others prepare next season to fight you with all their strength, to try to go to the transfer market, to try to improve.
"To be coach of a great team in England is great, but also gives you a lot of responsibility. When you arrive in England you must be ready to fight with big teams, against big players, against big coaches. This league has made me better than before. I'm sure about this."
Chelsea face Arsenal in the Community Shield match at Wembley on Sunday.
Barney Corkhill
