Former Chelsea midfielder and manager Frank Lampard has expressed confidence in the club’s chances of securing a top-four finish in the Premier League under new boss Enzo Maresca.
Lampard praised Maresca’s strong start at Stamford Bridge and believes Chelsea are well-positioned to return to the upper echelons of English football.
Maresca took over from Mauricio Pochettino ahead of the current season, following a sixth-place finish last term – an improvement on Chelsea’s disappointing 12th-place finish during the 2022/2023 campaign.
Despite the managerial changes and the ongoing transition within the squad, optimism is once again growing amongst Chelsea fans, with the club currently sitting fourth in the table.
Speaking to TNT Sports Mexico, Lampard said: “After two or three years of being in transition, with changes in ownership, managers, and players, it’s understandable that they haven’t been competing at the highest level.
But I do feel they’re in a good position now to challenge for the top four again, to be where Chelsea expect to be.”
Lampard, who managed Chelsea twice and enjoyed a decorated playing career at the club, also acknowledged the impact of the upheaval at Stamford Bridge in recent years.
Significant changes at board level, along with managerial and player turnover, have contributed to a sense of instability, reflected in Chelsea’s inconsistent performances on the pitch.
However, with Maresca’s side showing promise early in the season, Lampard remains encouraged by the team’s progress.
He specifically highlighted the influence of young English talent Cole Palmer, who made history with four first-half goals during Chelsea’s victory over Brighton last weekend.
“They’re young, and with a young team, consistency isn’t always easy,” Lampard explained. “Winning trophies with young players is not simple, but it’s the strategy Chelsea have chosen. There’s a lot of young talent, particularly in forward areas, and they have the depth to keep the squad fresh.”
Looking at the Premier League title race, Lampard believes Arsenal and Liverpool will be Manchester City’s main challengers this season.
He said, “Arsenal have brought in several players and have a strong squad in all areas. They’ve pushed City close over the last two seasons, so they’re in the conversation. Liverpool too, though it might be harder for them given the changes at the club.”
With Chelsea appearing to find their rhythm under Maresca,
Lampard is optimistic that the Blues can re-establish themselves as one of the Premier League’s top sides and mount a serious challenge for Champions League football this season.
