Chelsea’s top-eight hopes hit by Atalanta after De Ketelaere seals comeback win

The GuardianTuesday, December 9, 2025 at 10:03:53 PM
Chelsea’s top-eight hopes hit by Atalanta after De Ketelaere seals comeback win
  • Chelsea's hopes of securing a top-eight finish in the Champions League were severely impacted by a late defeat to Atalanta, where Charles De Ketelaere scored a decisive goal. This loss highlighted Chelsea's ongoing struggle with consistency and resilience, particularly in high-stakes matches.
  • The defeat against Atalanta not only jeopardizes Chelsea's immediate Champions League ambitions but also raises concerns about the team's long-term strategy under manager Enzo Maresca. The prospect of a February playoff looms, potentially stretching the squad thin.
  • This setback follows a mixed period for Chelsea, which included a significant win against Barcelona, showcasing their potential. However, recurring defensive weaknesses and inability to recover from setbacks have become critical issues, reflecting a broader trend of inconsistency that may hinder their aspirations in both domestic and European competitions.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

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