Dzeko is terrible and Balotelli will spend half the season suspended or sulking
It's not just the on-pitch effect of losing Fabregas, it will be the knock on effect to the other players, Wenger and also potential signings, they will have no leader on or off the pitch. Plus their defence is terrible, Djourou + Koscielny + Squillachi
Your right about Liverpool, beating the lower teams has always been the problem. But from January when KK took over, only Chelsea accumulated more points than Liverpool. I am concerned however in the pursuit of Downing for £15m+......I'd rather have N'zogbia for cheaper or Mata for just over £20m, if he would come.......