Could this be Chelsea’s year in the Premier League? In the past few years, it seems to have been Man City dominating the scene (with a touch of Liverpool) – and Chelsea has taken a bit of a back seat. But this year, as they head into the new season, they’re going into it with confidence, riding high on a wave of momentum after proving they’re the best of the best – and lifting the FIFA Club World Cup.
And this win was a lot more than just a trophy – it was a statement. Enzo Maresca’s men absolutely destroyed Paris Saint-Germain 3-0, with Cole Palmer netting twice and João Pedro sealing the win. Many thought it would be PSG emerging triumphant… and the rest at least expected it to be a close one. But Chelsea pulled out the stops… with a performance full of pace, precision, and personality – one that bodes well for a very solid Premier League season.
And with such a competitive yet balanced squad for the 2025–26 season… one filled with confidence, players can find the best Premier League betting odds that place Chelsea as the genuine dark horses this year.
A Club World Cup High
Their Club World Cup win was Chelsea’s first proper achievement since their 2022 win, but this one was a lot different. The Club World Cup back then was a lot different… smaller and somewhat less significant. The 2025 tournament was the biggest Club World Cup tournament ever – and it was Chelsea who won it.
There’s no doubt they were the most clinical and creative side in the entire tournament. They scored the most goals, had the most shots, open-play goals, and boasted an impressive 89.5% passing accuracy. They also set a tournament record for the number of different goal scorers. A diverse, strong team.
And they got more than just a trophy as well… they also earned millions in prize money and broadcast revenue, while the players got a very nice bonus to share between them. This was a team that had spent a lot in recent seasons, and this was well-needed, giving them even more to invest in the squad.
However, perhaps even more important than a trophy and lots of money, it gave them belief… the belief that they had what it takes to beat any club in the world… including every club in the EPL.
The 2025–26 Squad
Chelsea’s got a great squad lined up… youngsters and more experienced players, a team of depth and dynamism.
Goalkeepers: Robert Sánchez (1) will be the number one choice, and he’ll be supported by Filip Jørgensen (12) and American Gabriel “Gaga” Slonina (44).
Defenders: Their back line will consist of Tosin Adarabioyo (4), Benoît Badiashile (5), Levi Colwill (6), Reece James (24), Marc Cucurella (3), Malo Gusto (27), and Wesley Fofana (29). They’ve got some good new players as well – including Jorrel Hato, teenage sensation Aaron Anselmino and Axel Disasi.
Midfielders: We have Enzo Fernández (8), Moisés Caicedo (25) and the main man, Cole Palmer (10). Dário Essugo (14), Andrey Santos (17), and Roméo Lavia (45) will add even more energy and control in the middle. Then there are the youngsters Carney Chukwuemeka and Omari Kellyman, who could well feature in the rotation.
Forwards: Liam Delap (9) leads the way, supported by Pedro Neto (7), Nicolás Jackson (15), Christopher Nkunku (18), João Pedro (20), and the Brazilian Estêvão (41). Jamie Gittens (11) and Tyrique George (32) will add a bit of pace and flair.
Why Chelsea Could Win
World Cup Confidence and Momentum
Momentum in football doesn’t necessarily last as long as we’d like, but Chelsea doesn’t seem to have lost theirs yet. Winning the Club World Cup showed that they could take on and beat any team in the world. We could well see this confidence leak into the Premier League season, especially in the earlier games, when their confidence will be at its highest.
A Balanced and Flexible Team
The squad has also been put together to be adaptable and flexible. Chelsea’s squad has been plagued with injuries in the past few seasons, but they’ve now got two quality options for most positions, so will be better able to deal with it now.
Finances Are Good
They’ve sold players for big money – and have the prize money from the Club World Cup, so not only have they got a good squad, but they’ve also got a decent financial outlook. That’s a rare balance in modern football… and could bode well for the January transfer window.
The Challenges They’ll Face
Of course, they’re not going to have it all their own way. Liverpool is the defending champion, and they’re hungry to keep the title. Then there’s Arsenal, who’s just getting better and better under Mikel Arteta, and you can never count out Manchester City with its quality squad. Chelsea will need to be a lot more consistent against mid-table and lower-table sides this year… an issue they’ve struggled with in past seasons when they’ve dropped important points in ‘winnable’ matches.
And they also have injury concerns. Reece James and Wesley Fofana, when fit, are incredible defenders, but they’ve both struggled with injuries. The same is true of the midfield – they’ll need to keep Enzo Fernández and Moisés Caicedo on top form.
The Enzo Maresca Effect
He might have only been appointed last year, but he’s definitely already put his stamp on the side, having made Chelsea even more cohesive in attack and disciplined in their defence. He trusts the young players and has created an environment where he prioritises development as much as results.
Could it be Blue – and Not Man City This Time?
So, could this be Chelsea’s year in the Premier League? Well, they have what it takes and have proven themselves on the international stage. The squad is looking good; the manager has a clear philosophy, and that equals confidence.
If they can avoid injuries, take their Club World Cup into the season, and stay consistent, they could well cause an upset.
