Ending 10th is simply not good enough, considering the vast sums invested, but fans cling to the hope that new manager Xabi Alonso will be given the time and resources to build.
Without the ‘distraction’ of continental action, the Blues can focus their attention on domestic trophies and Premier League advancement.
Top tasks include employing a world-class goalie and a marquee-signing striker, but there are quality gaps in other positions too.
Interim gaffer Calum McFarlane described the 2-1 loss to the Black Cats at the Stadium of Light as “disappointing”, but it was the second-half red-carding of Wesley Fofana that undermined a possible Chelsea revival at Sunderland, after Cole Palmer reduced the deficit with half an hour remaining.
Blues captain Reece James, whose six-year contract (mirroring sister Lauren in the women’s team) guarantees some stability for the side, agrees with fans that Chelsea’s overall performance this season has been “far below our standards”.
No single factor can be blamed, but the club’s unpopular American owners may have finally acknowledged the errors of their own impatience and short-termism by appointing Alonso as manager, rather than head coach.
As the World Cup unfolds across the pond, the behind-the-scenes efforts to bring the right signings to Stamford Bridge will intensify. Even without the prize money from European football, there seems to be enough cash to splash.
A major squad shake-up is required. Alonso is under no obligation to retain underperforming team members, and has a genuine chance to rebuild from the foundations up. All the owners need to do is back him, trust him and give him time. Mikel Arteta was shown patience at Arsenal, and repaid that faith. Will that same attitude filter south to SW6?