Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien claims Manchester City could pose the biggest threat to the Blues' hopes of retaining their top-flight crown.
The Blues claimed a Premier League and FA Cup Double last season and have no plans to part with those accolades without a fight.
They have made an impressive start in the defence of their league title, suffering just one defeat in their opening seven fixtures.
That setback did come against ambitious City, though, with the Eastlands outfit hoping their elaborate spending will translate into silverware.
Essien accepts that Roberto Mancini's side are capable of challenging this term, but he feels Chelsea's experience when it comes to competing for major honours means they still hold the upper hand.
"There is still a long way to go," the Ghanaian midfielder told the Evening Standard after helping Chelsea to a 2-0 victory over Arsenal on Sunday.
"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."
Essien is more determined than most to get his hands on silverware this season, with two serious knee injuries having restricted his involvement over recent times.
Despite having spent almost a year in all on the sidelines, he was handed a new deal over the summer and is keen to repay Chelsea's faith.
He added: "I've had two serious injuries and these are the kind that can end your career. I'm lucky enough to be back on the pitch and have put everything behind me.
"Most players who have been out for so long with an injury don't get a new contract. This shows the club have great confidence in me.
"It was difficult watching Chelsea win the Double last season and to also miss the World Cup but injuries are part of the game. You have to accept it. I'm just happy they made it possible for me to be back.
"I'm delighted and want to repay the club with my performances and if we win something that will be good."
