How Can Chelsea Qualify For Champions League?
In the second week of December 2024, Chelsea moved into second place on the Premier League table, just two points behind leaders Liverpool after a 2-1 home win over Brentford. Expectations were sky-high for Enzo Maresca’s side, with many predicting a thrilling title race between two “newbie” managers: Arne Slot and Enzo Maresca.
Instead, what followed was a dramatic collapse of epic proportions from the Blues. Chelsea were four points clear of Arsenal, six ahead of Nottingham Forest, seven above Manchester City, and 11 clear of Newcastle United in December. As we now enter the final four games of the season, all of that advantage has been wiped out.
Chelsea currently sits fifth with 63 points, level on points with fourth-place Newcastle United and just one point behind mancity
The Chelsea faithful are desperate for a return to Champions League football, but growing frustrations have led to criticism of manager Enzo Maresca. The Italian, however, has maintained a grounded outlook:
“I said three or four days ago, and I’ll repeat it – Chelsea haven’t been in the Champions League spots for the last two years. This season, we’ve spent most of it there.”
How Can Chelsea Qualify For Champions League?
Despite inconsistent performances, Maresca believes Chelsea’s campaign has already shown signs of progress. But to make it a truly successful season, they must find a way to reclaim their Champions League spot.
Chelsea’s Final Four Fixtures
| Date | Opponent | Venue | Matchday |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 May 2025 | Newcastle United | Away | Matchday 36 |
| 17 May 2025 | Manchester United | Home | Matchday 37 |
| 25 May 2025 | Nottingham Forest | Away | Matchday 38 |
If Chelsea wins all three remaining games, they will finish on 72 points. Crucially, two of those matches are against direct rivals, Newcastle and Nottingham Forest, which means Chelsea’s fate is firmly in their own hands.
Also Read: How can Newcastle United Qualify for Champions League?
Victory against both would leapfrog them in the standings and guarantee a top-five finish, possibly even Third, depending on Manchester City’s results.
The Away-Day Dilemma
However, Chelsea’s Achilles’ heel this season has been their away form. They’ve managed just one away win in 2025 and haven’t won at St. James’ Park since the 2021–22 season. To make matters worse, Newcastle haven’t lost at home since February 1st, when they were beaten by Fulham.
If Maresca’s side is to end the season on a high, they’ll need to overcome their travel blues and deliver in two of the toughest away venues in the Premier League.
The margins are tight, the stakes are sky-high, and the next four games will define Chelsea’s season.
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