As the Premier League season nears its dramatic conclusion, all eyes are on Chelsea’s final match that could determine their Champions League fate.
Gary Neville Makes Final Prediction on Chelsea’s Champions League Hopes Ahead of Decisive Clash
The Blues head into the last game of the campaign needing a win to keep their top-five hopes alive — but Gary Neville believes it may not be enough.
Chelsea, currently sitting fourth with 66 points, are tied with Aston Villa and just one point ahead of both Manchester City and Nottingham Forest.
The tension couldn’t be higher as they travel to the City Ground to face a spirited Forest side that’s chasing Champions League qualification themselves.
Speaking on The Gary Neville Podcast, the former Manchester United defender shared his final thoughts:
“Forest got a really important win. They’ve got a big game next weekend. City have tough fixtures, and they’ll be a bit flat after losing the cup final.
But if I had to call it now, I think City, Newcastle, and Villa get in. I can see Forest holding Chelsea to a result, and Villa winning at Old Trafford.”
Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca is facing a selection dilemma, with striker Nicolas Jackson unavailable.
He may turn to young Marc Guiu, hoping he can replicate the attacking magic the Blues showed in last season’s 3-2 win at Forest — a game remembered for goals from Mudryk, Sterling, and Jackson.
Despite a promising squad, Chelsea have been plagued by inconsistency and costly errors this season.
No Premier League team has had more goalkeeper errors leading to goals than the Blues, a stat that could haunt them if they fall short on Sunday.
However, there’s renewed hope in goal with Robert Sanchez replacing Filip Jorgensen, whose mistake against Villa earlier this season handed their rivals a crucial win.
With Champions League qualification, prestige, and potential transfer power on the line, Sunday’s showdown promises high stakes and high drama.
Chelsea fans will hope their side can silence the doubters — and prove Gary Neville wrong.
