“They win against a relegation haunted team and they act like they have won the league. I’m sorry but Chelsea just isn’t top six material. They basically got lucky this time” – This is according to Rio Ferdinand after he stormed off during Chelsea live coverage as he tears into the Blues despite the well deserved win against Southampton
**Rio Ferdinand Rips into Chelsea Despite Win Against Southampton – ‘They’re Not Top Six Material!’**
Chelsea’s victory over Southampton should have been a moment of celebration, but Rio Ferdinand had other ideas. The Manchester United legend made headlines when he stormed off live coverage, visibly frustrated with what he saw as an overreaction from Chelsea fans and players after their hard-fought win.
### A Scathing Critique from a Premier League Icon
Ferdinand, known for his candid opinions, did not mince words as he assessed Chelsea’s performance and overall standing in the Premier League.
*“They win against a relegation-haunted team and they act like they have won the league. I’m sorry, but Chelsea just isn’t top-six material. They basically got lucky this time,”* he fumed.
Despite Chelsea securing three points, Ferdinand remained unimpressed, arguing that their struggles against a team fighting for survival exposed deeper issues within the squad.
### Were Chelsea Actually Lucky?
While Chelsea displayed attacking intent and controlled much of the game, Southampton had their moments. Several close calls, defensive lapses, and missed chances from the Saints suggested that the match could have swung either way.
Ferdinand was adamant that luck played a role in Chelsea’s win. Southampton, despite their position in the relegation battle, pushed Chelsea hard, and had they been more clinical, the result could have been very different.
### The Top Six Debate: Do Chelsea Belong?
Chelsea’s inconsistency has been a recurring theme this season. While their squad boasts immense talent, results have fluctuated, leaving many to question whether they truly belong among England’s elite clubs.
Ferdinand’s remarks reflect a growing sentiment among some analysts that Chelsea, despite flashes of brilliance, have yet to prove themselves as genuine top-six contenders. Their performances against weaker opposition have been scrutinized, and even in victories, they have struggled to convince critics that they are on an upward trajectory.
### Fan Reaction and Social Media Buzz
Unsurprisingly, Ferdinand’s comments ignited a firestorm on social media. Chelsea supporters were quick to defend their team, highlighting their recent resurgence and dismissing Ferdinand’s criticism as bitter rivalry.
*“Rio is just salty because United are struggling. A win is a win, and we fought for it!”* one fan tweeted.
Another added, *“Every team gets lucky sometimes. We dominated most of the game and deserved the three points.”*
However, some neutrals and rival fans sided with Ferdinand’s analysis, arguing that Chelsea’s reaction to the win was overblown and that their inconsistency remains a major concern.
### What’s Next for Chelsea?
While Chelsea’s victory was a positive step, Ferdinand’s harsh critique serves as a reminder that expectations remain high. If Chelsea want to silence their doubters, they will need to put together a consistent run of performances, particularly against stronger opposition.
For now, the Blues sit in a precarious position, with their long-term ambitions under scrutiny. Their response to Ferdinand’s comments—both on and off the pitch—will determine whether they truly belong among the Premier League’s elite.
One thing is certain: Rio Ferdinand won’t be the last pundit to challenge Chelsea’s credentials this season.