Chelsea fans might be hoping for a better season in 2023/24, after their disastrous campaign last year, which saw them finish 12th in the Premier League and miss out on European football for the first time in seven years.
However, they might be in for another disappointment, as there are several factors that could prevent them from achieving their goals this year, and here are some of them:
Managerial instability
Chelsea have a new manager in Mauricio Pochettino, who replaced Frank Lampard in January 2023. Pochettino is a proven and respected coach, who has done well at Tottenham Hotspur and Paris Saint-Germain, but he faces a huge challenge at Stamford Bridge. He has to deal with the high expectations and demands of the owner, the board, the fans and the media, as well as the pressure of competing with the likes of Manchester City, Liverpool, Manchester United and Arsenal.
He also has to adapt to a new league, a new culture and a new squad, which might take some time. Pochettino might not have the luxury of time at Chelsea, as the club is notorious for its impatience and ruthlessness with managers. If he fails to deliver results and performances quickly, he could be shown the door sooner rather than later.
Squad overhaul
Chelsea have made some big changes to their squad this summer, bringing in several new players and letting go of some old ones. They have signed Nicolas Jackson, Christopher Nkunku, Alex Matos, Diego Moreira, Kendry Paez and Dujuan Richards, while they have sold or released N’Golo Kante, Mason Mount, Cesar Azpilicueta, Timo Werner, Hakim Ziyech and Tammy Abraham.
These moves might seem exciting and ambitious, but they also carry some risks. The new players might not settle in well or live up to their potential, while the old players might be missed for their quality and experience. Chelsea might struggle to find the right balance and chemistry among their squad, as they have to integrate so many new faces and personalities.
Lack of European football
Chelsea are not playing in any European competition this season, as they failed to qualify for either the Champions League or the Europa League last season. This might seem like a blessing in disguise, as it gives them more time and focus to concentrate on the domestic competitions. However, it also has some drawbacks. It deprives them of the prestige and revenue that come with playing in Europe.
It also reduces their attractiveness and appeal to potential players and sponsors. It also affects their motivation and morale, as they miss out on the opportunity to test themselves against the best teams and players in the continent. Chelsea might find it hard to cope with the lack of European football this season, as it could damage their reputation and ambition.
These are some of the reasons why Chelsea might still have a bad season, despite their new manager, new signings and their preseason performance. Of course, nothing is guaranteed in football, Chelsea has a talented and expensive squad, a renowned manager and a loyal fanbase, and they have every reason to believe that they can turn things around this season. But they will also have to be realistic and careful about their prospects, and be ready to face any difficulties and disappointments that might come their way.
