Chelsea have been one of the major forces in European football throughout the last decade but have won just one Champions League title – despite reaching the semi-finals of the competition seven times since 2004. The Blues were knocked out this year after a disappointing home performance against Paris Saint-Germain saw them exit the competition via the away goals rule. We take a look at this Chelsea side and discuss whether or not they can win the elite tournament next season. For more football news and odds, visit Coral’s football section.
Mourinho will not get his tactics wrong this time
The Portuguese made a huge blunder this season as he tried to sit on a one-goal lead, despite knowing that a PSG goal would knock his side of the competition. That won’t happen again. More often than not, Mourinho gets his tactics spot on – and he is arguably the best manager in the world right now. The 52-year-old has been instrumental in Chelsea’s success this season – with the Blues needing just two more wins to guarantee the title – and will look to go one better and win Europe’s elite competition next year for the third time in his managerial career.
They are likely to strengthen in the summer transfer window
Chelsea usually strengthen in the transfer window, and they are likely to bring a couple of players in before the start of next season. Although the Blues are strong in all areas of the pitch, Mourinho knows the importance of squad rotation and may look to bring in another striker, central defender and another skilful winger.
Chelsea already boast one of the most talented squads in the world, but there would be no harm in adding more quality to the team. If they can bring in another couple of players, this will help to keep some of the older members of the squad fresh – and their experience could prove crucial at the business end of the competition.
They have experienced players who know how to get the job done
Chelsea have an experienced squad – and the majority have won titles in the past. The likes of John Terry, Branislav Ivanovic and Didier Drogba will help to motivate their younger players, while those who have recently joined will be hungry to build on their recent success in the Capital One Cup and bar a major capitulation, the Premier League. The Blues are more than capable of reaching the latter stages and, with a little bit of luck, they have the ability and experience to win their second Champions League crown in the last four seasons.
