The most suprise for me there is Chelsea as they didn't look like a team that could be in the top 4 position this season although they shouldn't celebrate yet as they're on th same points with others below them and one game lost alway from falling off the top 10 position as other teams are just one point below while others are two and three. The table position is going to be different after the international break as players will return back having injuries or feeling tired and they can't perform as they use to do. making other teams to have the opportunity to go up the table.
Chelsea have had some bad seasons therefore it is not strange to doubt their ability to be in such as good position now. Enzo Maresca didn't also look like a coach who would clean up the mess other coaches left behind. The new coach has helped many players to improve and the playing style of the club is now commendable. Just as you rightly said, the league is still early to conclude that the Blues will qualify for the Champions League this season.
Under Maresca management anything seems possible, looking back at last season and comparing how Chelsea started and how they ended, gives us the best of opinion that them qualifying for the Champions league is extremely possible under close and consistent performance from the players. Tottenham, Newcastle and Aston Villa who looks like a threat to covering the 4th position are depreciating in terms of their performance. If any team should deserve the top 4 then by any possible reference, Chelsea under Maresca should be having a spot there, i believe that is also the target from the management, no longer need to keep playing in the Conference league.