Ex-England and Man United striker Wayne Rooney believes Chelsea could become a “real threat” in the Premier League next season despite missing out on European football.
Chelsea ended a disappointing campaign in 10th place after a 2-1 defeat to Sunderland on the final day of the season, missing out on qualification for both the Europa League and Conference League.
The Blues also parted ways with managers Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior during a turbulent season before appointing Xabi Alonso as their new head coach.
Speaking on the Wayne Rooney Podcast on Monday, Rooney said Chelsea’s absence from Europe could work in their favour next season.
“I think they’ll be a real threat next season.
“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,” he said.
Chelsea began the campaign as Club World Cup winners but struggled for consistency domestically and in Europe.
They reached the Champions League last 16 before suffering an 8-2 aggregate defeat to Paris Saint-Germain
Rooney also pointed to the advantage of having more time on the training pitch compared to clubs involved in European competitions.
“Pre-season this year for all the managers at all the top clubs will be disrupted, obviously, because of the World Cup.
“I think that’s where it will benefit Alonso, because he’ll have that time once the season starts to get his ideas across.
“The teams in Europe might struggle a little bit. It could be an extra three days a week [on the training pitch],” he added.
Chelsea previously bounced back from a 10th-place finish to win the Premier League title in the 2016-17 season, and Rooney believes a similar recovery could be possible under Alonso.
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