Chelsea Secure Champions League Return with Youngest Squad in Premier League History

 Chelsea Football Club will return to the UEFA Champions League next season after sealing a crucial 1-0 victory over Nottingham Forest on the final day of the Premier League campaign. The win confirmed a top-four finish and marked the Blues’ return to Europe’s elite competition for the first time in three years.

It has been a rollercoaster season for Chelsea under manager Enzo Maresca, whose youthful side showed resilience and character despite inconsistent form at times. After a disappointing opening-day loss to Manchester City, the team rebounded impressively and lost just once more against Liverpool before Boxing Day. However, a rough patch followed, with only two wins recorded between December 22 and the end of February.

Despite the mid-season slump, Chelsea managed to turn things around, winning five of their final six games. The strong finish, capped off by the victory against Forest, ensured their place in the 2025/26 Champions League.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Chelsea’s campaign is the age of the squad. According to a stat shared by BBC Sport’s Nizaar Kinsella via Opta, Chelsea’s average starting XI age this season was 24 years and 36 days the youngest ever by a team over a full Premier League season.

Only Marc Cucurella, Robert Sanchez, and Tosin Adarabioyo are over the age of 25 among the most frequently used starting players. This youthfulness represents both a strength and a challenge. While it bodes well for the future—with players expected to grow in experience and cohesion—it also highlights the need for careful development and the right blend of experience to compete at the highest level.

Fans are justifiably excited about the potential of this group, but many also caution against settling for mere qualification. As Chelsea rebuilds under Maresca, the long-term goal remains clear: to return to competing for Premier League titles and making deep runs in the Champions League.

This qualification marks a significant milestone in Chelsea’s ongoing project—a signal that the club is on the right path. However, supporters and stakeholders alike will be hoping that this is only the beginning of a resurgence that sees the Blues restore their place among Europe’s elite.