Chelsea are still in charge of their Champions League destiny after a nail-biting Premier League weekend that has made things clearer. One more victory, this time against Nottingham Forest on the last day of the season, will guarantee top-four spot and guarantee a return to Europe’s top competition.
The West Ham vs Nottingham Forest result turned out to be decisive, as Forest’s victory leaves them just a point behind Chelsea going into the last round. With Manchester United and Aston Villa also in the run, Chelsea cannot be allowed to drop any more points.
Sunday’s results mean Enzo Maresca’s side must win to avoid depending on other fixtures. Aston Villa’s clash with United and Manchester City’s games could influence the final standings, but Chelsea will want to avoid that scenario. Three points at the City Ground will end all speculation and guarantee a Champions League spot.
Nottingham Forest vs #Chelsea next week is a final! 😱
Win = Champions League
Draw = Europa League
Loss = Conference League
*Conference League final win means Europa League football* pic.twitter.com/jNXH0GQU2O
— Talk Chelsea (@talkchelsea) May 18, 2025
Chelsea face ultimate test of nerve against Forest
The pressure is immense heading into next weekend. Forest, now seventh with 65 points, will be fighting for their own European dreams. Chelsea, just ahead on 66, must respond with composure and quality in a high-stakes encounter.
Chelsea’s inconsistent form has made this final hurdle more challenging than it should be. Their performance against Newcastle raised serious concerns about how they handle pressure in tough away environments. The loss at St. James’ Park highlighted key weaknesses that Forest could also exploit.
Enzo Maresca has to address the slow starts that have plagued Chelsea in crucial games. The team’s inability to control matches early has become a pattern, and at this stage of the season, such errors are unforgivable. Against Newcastle, the Blues conceded early and never recovered, which cannot be repeated in Nottingham.
The City Ground will present a hostile atmosphere similar to what Chelsea faced at Newcastle. Forest supporters know the stakes and will turn up the volume. Chelsea’s squad, filled with young talent, must show maturity beyond their years.
Forest’s recent win has reignited their belief, even if their overall form has dipped over the last few months. That confidence, combined with home support, makes them a dangerous opponent. Maresca must prepare his side mentally and tactically for a battle. This is not just another league game — it’s the one that could define the season and shape the club’s immediate future.
Lack of attacking spark remains The Blues’ biggest concern
The Blues’ 1-0 win over Manchester United last Friday was a step in the right direction, but the attacking display left much to be desired. Without Nicolas Jackson, Chelsea looked disjointed and lacked a clear focal point in the final third. Crosses were sent in without purpose, and chances were few and far between. Forest’s defence will be even more compact and aggressive. Chelsea must find a way to break them down with precision, not volume.
Creativity from midfield and better movement in the box will be essential. Relying on hopeful deliveries won’t work against a team that defends deep and plays with passion. The likes of Enzo Fernandez and Cole Palmer must step up and dictate play from the outset.
Despite the inconsistency and challenges, Chelsea’s destiny is still in their hands. A win guarantees them a Champions League place, a crucial achievement in Maresca’s debut season. Anything less leaves them vulnerable to results elsewhere.
The final day will be a test of character. Chelsea have the talent to succeed, but they must show resilience and professionalism. The stakes could not be higher. All eyes will be on the City Ground. Victory means progress, failure could spark another season of uncertainty. For Chelsea, this is the moment to prove they belong among Europe’s elite.
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