Chelsea is on the brink of losing out on Champions League qualification.
Image credit: Fabrizio Romano
With just two wins in their last nine league games, their hopes of a top-four finish are fading fast.
Paul Merson warns that if Champions League football is the priority, Maresca has a serious problem on his hands.
Chelsea’s Struggles: Where Will the Next Win Come From?
Chelsea’s recent performances have raised concerns. Their 3-0 defeat to Brighton in the Premier League was described by Maresca as their worst display under his leadership.
Two consecutive losses to Brighton—one in the FA Cup and another in the league—have left them in sixth place, one point behind fourth-placed Manchester City.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding fifth place securing Champions League qualification, Chelsea remains in the hunt. However, Merson is skeptical:
I don’t know where the next win comes from for Chelsea. They were fortunate against West Ham, and I don’t see them beating Aston Villa.
Palmer’s Struggles Without Jackson
One of Chelsea’s key issues is their lack of a world-class centre forward. Nicolas Jackson, despite criticism, has been vital in Chelsea’s attack, especially for Cole Palmer.
Without Jackson, Palmer has been forced to drop deeper, making it difficult for him to influence games.
Palmer needs Jackson. Without him, the game becomes too compact, and he struggles to create space.
Squad Depth Causing More Problems Than Solutions
Another major concern is Chelsea’s bloated squad. With players on long-term contracts and many others out on loan, balancing game time has become a significant challenge.
Early in the season, the Conference League provided additional opportunities for rotation, but without European football, keeping players happy has proven impossible.
Merson warns that even if Chelsea secures Champions League football, managing the squad could become an even bigger issue:
There are still a lot of tears to come at Chelsea. I feel for the manager—he just can’t keep everyone happy.
What’s Next for Chelsea?
Chelsea faces Aston Villa next in a crucial Saturday Night Football clash. A loss could further dent their top-four ambitions and intensify pressure on Maresca.
Can Chelsea turn things around and secure a Champions League spot? Or will their struggles continue, forcing them to settle for another season outside Europe’s elite competition?