Where Will Chelsea Finish in the 2025/26 Premier League Season?
After sealing fourth place on the final day of the 2024/25 season, Chelsea are back in the Champions League — and optimism is quietly building at Stamford Bridge. Under Enzo Maresca, the Blues secured two pieces of silverware last term — the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup — while navigating through a transitional period with one of the youngest squads in the league.
But what can fans expect heading into the 2025/26 campaign?
Chelsea’s Objectives for the New Season
Chelsea’s ownership has made it clear: the main objective is another top-four finish, not an all-out title charge just yet. Despite the investment and growing quality within the squad, the club is taking a pragmatic approach to Maresca’s long-term project.
Opta Supercomputer Prediction: Chelsea to Finish 4th
According to a pre-season simulation by the Opta Supercomputer, Chelsea are predicted to finish 4th again in the Premier League. While fans may dream of a genuine title challenge, the data analytics model suggests that might be a step too far — for now.
- Chance of winning the title: 8.4%
- Chance of finishing 4th: 10.9%
Opta’s Full Predicted Top 10 for 2025/26:
| Position | Club |
|---|---|
| 1 | Liverpool |
| 2 | Arsenal |
| 3 | Manchester City |
| 4 | Chelsea |
| 5 | Aston Villa |
| 6 | Newcastle United |
| 7 | Crystal Palace |
| 8 | Brighton |
| 9 | Bournemouth |
| 10 | Brentford |
The fact that Tottenham and Manchester United are predicted to finish 14th and 12th respectively shows just how unpredictable this league could be.
What the Experts Are Saying
- Alan Shearer has publicly backed Chelsea to be potential challengers in the long-term.
- John Terry, however, remains cautious, admitting that the team isn’t quite ready to win the league yet.
Both viewpoints underline what many fans feel: Chelsea are on the right path, but still a step or two away from being the finished article.
Summer Transfers: Are Chelsea Stronger This Year?
Absolutely.
Chelsea’s squad has more depth, balance, and experience heading into the new campaign.
Key Signings:
- Joao Pedro and Liam Delap: Adding goals and pressing energy up front.
- Estevao Willian and Jamie Gittens: Exciting young wingers with massive upside.
- Jorrel Hato: A versatile defender who can cover left-back and centre-back.
- Andrey Santos: Back from a successful loan at Strasbourg, ready to boost the midfield.
These additions more than make up for the departures of players like Noni Madueke, while adding further flexibility for Maresca’s system.
Final Thoughts: Progress with Patience
If Chelsea had failed to beat Nottingham Forest on the final day last season, the mood would likely be very different heading into this campaign. Instead, they go in with momentum, silverware in their cabinet, and a clearer identity under Maresca.
While winning the Premier League may be too big an ask in 2025/26, another top-four finish is a must — and there’s every reason to believe this exciting young squad can deliver.
Prediction: 4th — but pushing close for 3rd.
