Former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney believes Chelsea could emerge as a serious Premier League threat next season, even without the demands of European competition.
Chelsea completed their 2025–26 league campaign on May 24, 2026, finishing firmly in mid-table after an inconsistent season. The London club recorded 14 wins, 10 draws and 14 defeats from their 38 matches, scoring 58 goals and conceding 52, ending with a goal difference of +6 and a total of 52 points.
Despite the mixed campaign, Rooney believes the absence of European football could actually work in Chelsea’s favour as they prepare for a rebuild under incoming head coach Xabi Alonso.
Speaking on The Wayne Rooney Podcast, the former England captain said the reduced fixture schedule would allow Alonso time to properly settle into the role and implement his ideas.
“I think they’ll be a real threat next season,” Rooney said.
“Obviously having one game a week, and then with Alonso coming in, I think it’s exciting for the Premier League because I think he’s got the potential to be a top manager.
“It gives him a period of time to feel his way into the club and get his ideas across. So I think it will benefit the football club.”
Rooney suggested that the lighter schedule compared to Europe’s elite clubs could help Chelsea develop consistency and stability after a turbulent season, particularly as Alonso begins shaping the squad in his own image.
The remarks come as Chelsea look to close the gap on the Premier League’s top sides following a season that fell short of expectations despite flashes of improvement in attack not to mention the three coaches they had to use this season
Alonso’s arrival is expected to mark a new tactical direction at Stamford Bridge, with the Spaniard tasked with building a more structured and competitive team capable of challenging for major honours again.
With no European commitments next season, Chelsea will focus solely on domestic competitions — a factor Rooney believes could be decisive in their development and resurgence.
