Photo by James Gill - Danehouse/Getty Images
Photo by James Gill - Danehouse/Getty Images
Jamie Carragher has never been afraid to be critical of what’s going on at Chelsea, although even he is predicting the Blues to have a strong campaign under Xabi Alonso.
Chelsea have a lot to put right after their 10th-placed finish last season, seeing them miss out on European football for this campaign.
Despite their failings, they have still been able to enjoy a successful transfer window, bringing in the likes of Morgan Rogers and Maxence Lacroix.
Chelsea FC Unveil New Signing Morgan Rogers
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Jamie Carragher tips Chelsea to challenge for the Premier League title
There is an air of excitement with Alonso at the helm too, after he enjoyed a positive pre-season campaign following the introduction of the back-three system.
Jamie Carragher was asked to give his hot take for the 2026/27 Premier League season, and he stated that he believes Chelsea will be the closest contenders to defending champions, Arsenal.
Manchester United v Liverpool - Premier League
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He told The Overlap: “I think Chelsea could challenge for the title. Be in there ’till after Christmas. The biggest challengers to Arsenal. It’s on the back of no European football. I just think, I like the signing of the lad from Crystal Palace [Lacroix], he’s bringing experience in, he’s played in the Premier League.
“Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer, if that works. Joao Pedro I think is a really good player. The midfield, they’ve got really good players in there. They’ve got a competent manager, and I’m expecting them to have a really good season.”
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Chelsea have come a long way in Carragher’s eyes
Carragher’s hot take from last season also involved Chelsea, however in a far less positive way than what he is predicting this time around.
The Liverpool legend predicted the Blues would not make it out of the group stages of the Champions League, only for them to finish in the top eight and qualify without a play-off.
Their campaign ended at the next stage against eventual winners, PSG, and their season completely derailed from this point on under Liam Rosenior.
However, there is newfound confidence with Alonso at the helm, and he will be looking for the perfect start to the campaign when he takes his side to Craven Cottage to face Fulham.