Intended position of The Guardian writers 4th (Note: This is not necessarily Jacob Steinberg’s prediction, but rather the average of our writers’ advice)
Last season’s position 3rd
Odds of winning the league (via Oddschecker) 16-1
prospects
It’s been a dizzying summer at Stamford Bridge. Roman Abramovich is gone, as is the closest allies of the Russiansand Chelsea’s new owners haven’t had much time to catch up with the intricacies of English football since completing their £4.25bn takeover of the club.
However, the situation is far from disastrous. Chelsea has not left. Recruitment overseen by Todd Boehly, the club’s new co-owner and interim sporting director, has been encouraging and there have been no signs that Chelsea are restraining their spending. Raheem Sterling, who should make Thomas Tuchel’s attack much more incisive, it’s a solid buy and Kalidou Koulibably is an important defensive signing following the departures of Antonio Rüdiger and Andreas Christensen.
In that context, the picture does not look so bad. Tuchel still has a talented team and the ben chilwell comeback from a long-term injury is a huge boost. A left side of Sterling and Chilwell? It looks quite tasty.
However, it is doubtful the team will be strong enough to bridge the gap to Liverpool and City. Tuchel has problems in central midfield: N’Golo Kante can’t stay fit and Jorginho lacks mobility, and chelsea could be short of reliable goal scorers. Kai Havertz, who is expected to continue as the false nine, needs to become reliable. There can’t be too much of a scoring load for Mason Mount and Sterling. If there is qualification for the Champions League and the races in the cups it may be enough.