London, July 27 - Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka believes that without Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez, Manchester United will find it tough to retain their Premier League title.

'I don't think United will be as strong this season because Ronaldo has gone and Carlos Tevez has gone. That could give us more chance to be stronger than them,' the Frenchman was quoted as saying in The Sun.

'United have lost two big players so it gives everyone else -- including ourselves -- a big chance to win it.'

Anelka feels that this year it will be a tough title race and even Manchester City will be in reckoning.

'Maybe this season -- because we (Chelsea) have a strong squad and everyone is together -- we have a better chance. It is going to be a tough title race. They are all very strong. Even Man City have some good players,' the 30-year-old said.