The 2025-26 Premier League season kicks off on Friday night, and the excitement among fans and experts is palpable.
Ahead of the new season, former players and experts have been making their predictions about how the teams will fare in the new season.
Going into the new season, Chelsea have established themselves as one of the teams to watch on the back of a successful last season and a host of exciting new signings.
While some believe that Enzo Maresca’s team has what it takes to challenge for the Premier League title this season, others believe that they will manage to qualify for the Champions League.
Meanwhile, Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has backed the Blues to finish in fourth spot in the upcoming Premier League season and thereby secure a Champions League spot.
According to Rooney’s predictions, Liverpool will manage to successfully defend their title while Arsenal will finish in second place once again.
📲 Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
The former Everton striker also tipped Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City to finish in third place.
From a neutral perspective, it's hard to argue with Rooney’s predictions as Liverpool do seem to be the favourites to win consecutive league titles.
As far as Chelsea is concerned, a fourth-place finish seems most realistic for the Blues, as they are a young side and may struggle to handle the pressure of a title race.
Chelsea news and related links
- What was the Chelsea score today? Result, highlights from AC Milan preseason friendly
- Chelsea vs. Bayer Leverkusen score, result, highlights: Estavao sparkles to inspire debut win
- Key Chelsea player ruled out until September