Chelsea finished 10th after a final-day 2-1 defeat at Sunderland, missing Europa League qualification as Brighton and Sunderland finished above them. The result marked only the third time since 1995-96 that Chelsea have placed 10th or lower in the top flight. The season included managerial upheaval, with Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior leaving before Xabi Alonso was appointed for next season. Wayne Rooney expects Chelsea’s lack of European matches to help Alonso settle in, implement ideas, and benefit from a lighter schedule. He also points to Manchester United’s strong league finish without European commitments and notes World Cup disruption could affect pre-season for top clubs.
"“I think they'll be a real threat next season,” Rooney said on the Wayne Rooney Podcast. “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.” Rooney pointed to Manchester United's own season as evidence of how fewer fixtures can benefit teams competing at the top end of the table."
"“Pre-season this year for all the managers at all the top clubs will be disrupted, obviously, because of the World Cup,” Rooney believes the reduced schedule next season could hand Alonso valuable time on the training ground, particularly with several clubs expected to face disrupted preparations."
Read at 101GREATGOALS.COM
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