The position envisaged by the Guardian writers: 7th (NB: this is not necessarily John Brewin's prediction, but the average of our writers' advice)
Last season's position: 6th
Perspectives
To suggest that Chelsea's 2024-25 side is enigmatic is a massive understatement. Virtually everything that happened after the club's departure Champions League 2021 celebrations The football world has embraced chaos and confusion. The football world watches in amazement as a club with a rich and colourful history is used as an investment vehicle, as a trading platform, by private equity owners.
The turnover of players remains dizzying, as does the lack of patience of the owners with the coaches. Last season, quietly, there were tangible advances under Mauricio Pochettino. Sixth place and European football this season, in addition Losing the Carabao Cup final In the penalty shoot-out, there was a noticeable improvement with a group of inexperienced players who were chosen at random. It was no surprise when Pochettino left by mutual agreementa fate with which he did not seem to feel too uncomfortable.
A growing need to balance the books after an infamously scattered process, Billion pound recruitment drive and the desire for “pure profit” in transfer transactions led Trevoh Chalobah and Conor Gallagheran agreement has been reached with Atlético de Madrid, which will be put up for sale. The academy, which has also seen the departure of key veteran and successful personnel, now has the task of cultivating high-quality products to bring to market.
There is talent on the team, although the key question is whether Cole Palmer can be as miraculous again. Chelsea Don’t fans just see Christopher Nkunku? What they saw last season was a player of great potential, but injuries blighted his debut campaign. Roméo Lavia was seen even less. Reece James’ body failed him, too. There are reasons to be optimistic. Palmer aside, Malo Gusto was a resounding success for Pochettino. Marc Cucurella had an outstanding Euro 2024 and no longer looks like a waste of £62m. But still, such is the volume of questions that no one knows what to expect from Chelsea’s latest project venture.