Chelsea fans are going to like what Wayne Rooney has had to say about their club and the 2026/27 campaign.
Understandably, Chelsea supporters are feeling disappointed right now. They watched their side lose for the 14th time in the Premier League on Sunday and miss out on European football as a result.
However, Rooney does not think that failing to qualify for Europe is necessarily a bad thing for the Blues.
Who has been Chelsea’s biggest underperformer this season? ⬇️
Players of Chelsea form a huddle
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
No European football next season means Chelsea are only going to be playing once a week. According to Rooney, that and the arrival of Xabi Alonso will make them a threat.
Speaking on The Wayne Rooney Show, the Manchester United and England legend said: “I think they’ll be a real threat next season. Obviously having one game a week, and then with Alonso coming in, I think it’s exciting for the Premier League because I think he’s got the potential to be a top manager.
“It gives him a period of time to feel his way into the club and get his ideas across. So I think it will benefit the football club.”
Xabi Alonso of Bayer Leverkusen
Photo by Jürgen Fromme – firo sportphoto/Getty Images
Alonso will not be the only new arrival at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea are expected to be busy in the transfer window after an underwhelming campaign.
A central defender is likely to arrive at Chelsea, while the Blues could also bring in a new goalkeeper.
Chelsea fans will welcome a bit of a revamp after witnessing so many players in their squad underperform.
Even the likes of Cole Palmer and Marc Cucurella disappointed after terrific 2024/25 campaigns.
Why playing once a week won’t guarantee success for Chelsea
Chelsea have benefited from not playing in Europe before, winning the 2016/17 Premier League title under Antonio Conte. It is the last time that the Blues managed to get their hands on the English league crown.
However, they have also had a very average season while not participating in any European competition.
In 2024, Chelsea finished sixth despite having to play only once a week. A season like that is probably more likely than their 2016/17 campaign unless Alonso turns out to be a miracle worker.
Hopefully he has what it takes to get the club back into the Champions League, which is where they need to be every year.
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