Guardian writers’ predicted position: 4th (Note: This is the average of our writers’ predictions, not necessarily Michael Butler’s personal forecast.)
Last season’s position: 4th
### Prospects
Chelsea’s season was transformed by securing Champions League qualification on the final day and an unexpected Club World Cup victory—boosting both their finances and ambitions for 2025-26. Though they flew under the radar for much of the Club World Cup (thanks partly to a favorable path), their dominant 3-0 win over Paris Saint-Germain in the final reestablished them as a potential force in Europe—and maybe even Premier League title contenders.
But are they ready—mentally, physically, and tactically—for the new season? While most Premier League clubs had already begun pre-season by the time Chelsea played the Club World Cup final on July 13, their players were given three weeks off afterward. They only returned to training on Monday, with just two friendlies scheduled before their league opener against Crystal Palace on August 17. To say they’re playing catch-up would be an understatement.
Still, this is arguably Chelsea’s most exciting period since their 2021 Champions League triumph. Aside from goalkeeper and possibly center-back, Enzo Maresca has two elite players for nearly every position—and could further strengthen with links to Xavi Simons and Alejandro Garnacho. Some departures will be needed to balance the books (Chelsea were recently fined €31m by UEFA for financial breaches), but few would dispute they have the league’s deepest squad. Maresca’s biggest challenge will be maintaining harmony and consistency, especially with the demands of the Champions League—far less forgiving than last season’s Conference League.
### Past five seasons
(Table or summary of recent league finishes would go here.)
### The Manager
As recently as April, Maresca was at odds with Chelsea fans, blaming a toxic atmosphere at Stamford Bridge after a 2-2 draw with Ipswich threatened their top-five hopes. But five wins from their final six games secured fourth place, salvaging the season—and likely his job. “They said we were too young, not good enough,” he remarked. “Well, they were all wrong. So, in English—eff off to all of them.” His tactical masterclass in the Club World Cup final, neutralizing PSG’s attack while creating space for Cole Palmer, means he’ll return to a much warmer reception this season.
(Image caption: Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca will be a far more popular figure when the new season begins. Photograph: Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC/Getty Images)
### Off-Field Picture
Chelsea’s controversial financial maneuvers—exploiting now-closed UEFA loopholes, selling their women’s team to their parent company, and leveraging multi-club ownership—have angered rivals while assembling one of the deepest, youngest squads in football. Under Todd Boehly, the club has spent over £1.5bn and faces another €60m UEFA fine if they fail to comply with financial rules over the next four years.
A bigger stadium would help, but plans for Stamford Bridge remain uncertain. The 40,044-capacity ground is difficult to expand due to issues like the freehold and a nearby railway. A move to Earl’s Court has been floated, but nothing is confirmed.
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Last Season
Star Signing:
Estêvão, pursued by PSG, Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich, is considered Brazil’s brightest talent since Vinícius Júnior. The 18-year-old shone at the Club World Cup, scoring a stunning goal for Palmeiras against Chelsea in the quarter-finals, proving he’s already world-class. After the final in Philadelphia, Chelsea players were full of praise—Cole Palmer joked, “I told Estêvão, ‘We’re excited for you to join,’ but he didn’t understand a word!” The £52m signing, comfortable on either wing or as a No. 10, will aim to impress Brazil’s new manager—and former Chelsea boss—Carlo Ancelotti before next summer’s World Cup.
Stepping Up:
Josh Acheampong’s standout performances at the Club World Cup caught the attention of clubs across England and Europe. Manager Enzo Maresca believes the 19-year-old has the potential to become a top defender for Chelsea. Standing at 6ft 3in, Acheampong’s versatility and composure earned him 13 first-team appearances last season. Primarily a right-back or center-back, he can play anywhere in defense. A Chelsea academy product since the under-8s, he signed a new five-year deal in 2024. “Other clubs may like Josh, but we like him too,” Maresca said. “His best path is staying with us.”
A Big Season For…
Roméo Lavia. At 21, his talent is undeniable—Chelsea look more fluid and press-resistant with him in midfield. His flawless passing in a 3-1 win over Liverpool last May showcased his ability. Maresca even shifted Moisés Caicedo to right-back to pair Lavia with Enzo Fernández late last season. However, injuries have been a major concern. After just 32 minutes in 2023-24, he managed only 11 league starts last term. Another injury-hit season could be problematic, especially with Caicedo, Fernández, Dário Essugo, Andrey Santos, and possibly Reece James all competing for two defensive midfield spots in Maresca’s 4-2-3-1 system.
