Garnacho (right) is a prime example of Chelsea's failed season - Photo: REUTERS
The defeat against a direct rival in the 34th round of the Premier League has left Chelsea almost hopeless in the race for a top 5 finish – which would secure a place in next season's Champions League.
The Champions League qualification spot is slipping further away.
Following UEFA's changes to the Champions League format, qualification for Europe's premier competition has become even more valuable. Specifically, earlier this week UEFA tentatively announced the prize money for teams participating in this season.
Accordingly, Chelsea – with their achievement of reaching the round of 16 – will receive over 90 million euros in prize money. Liverpool – reaching the quarter-finals – will receive 108 million euros, and the teams that reach the semi-finals will receive at least 120 million euros (if they win the championship, they will receive around 150 million euros).
But prize money isn't everything. It also comes with countless other revenue streams from ticket sales, merchandise, and various forms of advertising and commercial activities. For a team of Chelsea's caliber, the estimated difference in revenue between "qualifying" and "not qualifying" for the Champions League is around 200-300 million euros.
For a large club like Chelsea – with a player wage bill exceeding €200 million and annual transfer and player commission expenses exceeding €100 million – qualifying for the Champions League is extremely important. Without a place in Europe's premier competition, Chelsea will undoubtedly have to tighten their belts this summer as they face immense pressure from Financial Fair Play regulations.
The future doesn't look very bright.
Chelsea's current situation is truly ironic, considering that just over six months ago they were at the pinnacle of glory, having won the FIFA Club World Cup and the Conference League. The enormous revenues from these two championships allowed Chelsea to spend heavily this summer, with €400 million spent. This included a €50 million transfer for Geovany Quenda, who is only scheduled to arrive at Stamford Bridge next summer.
However, it's worth noting that the club also earned €334 million from sales. Overall, Chelsea's financial situation is not very optimistic due to huge losses from previous seasons. Chelsea only recently "settled down" after returning to the Champions League. And now, they face an uncertain future if they fail to qualify for the Champions League next season.
The problem lies with Chelsea themselves. They consistently make questionable decisions regarding personnel policy. First, there was the signing of Garnacho – who also cost nearly €50 million, but contributed little and caused numerous behind-the-scenes problems. Next, there was the conflict that led to the departure of manager Enzo Maresca, and then the appointment of Liam Rosenior – who only had three years of coaching experience – to the hot seat.
Even after winning the FIFA Club World Cup and returning to the Champions League, Chelsea is only a major club on the road to recovery after a series of years of crisis. Then the club's management made things difficult for themselves with too many inexplicable decisions. It seems the day Chelsea will once again dominate in Europe is still a long way off.
Source: https://tuoitre.vn/chelsea-sa-sut-vi-tu-huy-20260420101827636.htm
Comment (0)