Chelsea have already dropped as many points at home this season as they did in Antonio Conte’s first year in charge.
Defeat to Manchester City on Saturday means the Blues are six points behind Pep Guardiola’s side and Manchester United at the top of the table.
Pearce reckons the 1-0 loss at Stamford Bridge is a damaging blow for Conte’s aim of winning back-to-back titles in west London.
“You would probably say this was a defining game this weekend,” Pearce said.
SKY SPORTS
Chelsea news: Antonio Conte's title defence is not going too well, says Stuart Pearce
The two Manchester clubs, and Harry Kane at Tottenham, have really put markers down
Stuart Pearce on the Premier League title
“To be beaten by a main rival on your own pitch was a denting blow for them.
“I would say you’re looking at probably six or seven (out of 10) at best at the moment.
“The other two, the two Manchester clubs, and Harry Kane at Tottenham, have really put markers down and said ‘look, we’re going to be serious contenders this year’.”
Pearce went on to say he is backing the Red Devils to finish on top despite seeing an improvement in defence for City.
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Chelsea news: Man Utd and Man City have put markers down to win the title, says Stuart Pearce
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“Manchester City, the big question mark is can they keep the ball out of the net?” Pearce said.
“On Saturday (against Chelsea) it showed to me that maybe they are a vastly improving defensive outfit as well.
“So the playing fields have been evened a little bit.
“But I’ll still go with Manchester United because of Jose Mourinho.”
