European football has always been a test of strength and endurance for English clubs. In the 2025/26 season, a record nine Premier League sides will compete in European events. Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Newcastle United, and Tottenham Hotspur enter the UEFA Champions League, Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest join the UEFA Europa League, while Crystal Palace steps into the UEFA Conference League. 

However, the question arises. Does such a busy schedule lift clubs to new heights, or does it hold them back in their home league race? History shows that balancing both goals has been rare, with only a few clubs able to claim the Premier League and European crowns in the same season.

The weight of a packed season

European runs add both glamour and burden. For teams chasing trophies abroad, the number of matches can grow heavy. A club that reaches the late rounds could face up to 55 matches in one season, with 38 league fixtures, domestic cup ties, and 15 to 17 European games. 

In contrast, Leicester City’s title win in 2015/16 came during a calm schedule, as they played only 43 matches and avoided Europe altogether. The gap in match load shows how rest and recovery may aid some sides while travel and midweek contests stretch others thin.

Player view: Rhythm vs fatigue

Former England defender Matthew Upson sees the matter from a player’s point of view. He recalls enjoying a steady rhythm when playing twice a week, as the pace of matches built sharpness and fitness. For players, more games often mean more chances for medals and less risk of losing match shape. 

However, Upson admits that the number of matches near the winter break can become too much, pushing the need for bigger squads. Rotation is important, as rest ensures energy for others.

History of league success without Europe

Leicester’s miracle run in 2015/16 is a clear sign that freedom from Europe can fuel success. Chelsea matched the feat the following year. Even in the early Premier League years, clubs such as Manchester United in 1992/93 and Blackburn Rovers in 1994/95 had little European strain when they took the title. 

Since England received four Champions League spots after the 2001/02 season, it is rare for Premier League clubs to reach the top-four spots in the domestic league without experience in continental football leagues like the UCL and the Europa League. Still, the dream of ruling both at home and abroad is not impossible. 

Manchester United did so in 1998/99 and 2007/08, while Manchester City reached the same glory in 2022/23. Liverpool’s older double wins in 1976/77 and 1983/84 remain part of English football pride. These rare feats prove that, while hard, it is not beyond reach.

The strain of extra matches

The current season has already shown how fast the calendar can grow. Crystal Palace had played seven matches before mid-September, including qualifiers and the Community Shield, and may reach 29 by Christmas. 

By contrast, sides like Bournemouth, Leeds United, Manchester United, Sunderland, and West Ham United could play only 18 by that point, with no Europe and early cup exits. More games mean more risks, from injuries to poor form, but fewer games can also lead to longer waits between matches, which may stall rhythm.

Upson stresses that breaks can help if the training mood is good. If form dips and morale sinks, long gaps can hurt more than they help. Players then face long days at the training ground with no quick chance to fix their troubles on the pitch.

Europe can hurt league form

For some clubs, the push for Europe has come at a sharp cost in the league. Tottenham won the UEFA Europa League last season by beating Manchester United in the final, yet they slumped to 17th in the Premier League. 

Meanwhile, United ended only one spot higher. Spurs won their first European competition since 1984, but their underperformance in the Premier League still led to Ange Postecoglou's exit.

Burnley’s 2018/19 season showed another case. They played six UEFA Europa League qualifiers by August, failed to reach the group stage, and ended 15th in the league, far worse than the year before. 

Newcastle in 2012/13 advanced to the UEFA Europa League quarter-finals but slumped to 16th in the league. Both Blackburn in 1998/99 and Ipswich Town in 2001/02 were relegated while in European contests. The toll of travel, fatigue, and split focus has often left sides vulnerable.

Strange without Europe

For some giants, a season without European ties feels unusual. Manchester United, for example, last played a campaign without Europe in 2014/15. This year marks only their second such season since the 1990s. 

Already out of the Carabao Cup, they may finish with their lowest match total in the Premier League era unless they make a deep FA Cup run. A lighter schedule may bring rest, but can also rob players of the stage they are used to.

The balance of risk and reward

European football remains a dream and a danger. The lure of silverware and the honour of continental glory drive clubs to chase it, even as the Premier League demands steady focus week after week. 

Clubs outside Europe gain longer rest and simpler schedules, while those in Europe face fatigue but gain chances at history. The question lingers each season. Is it better to stay fresh and fight at home, or to risk a heavy load in pursuit of a greater prize?

The true cost of glory

The story of English clubs in Europe has always been about balance. Some sides have thrived, finding ways to claim both home and abroad. Others have struggled, paying the price of split focus with poor league finishes or even relegation. 

This season, with nine clubs carrying the extra weight, the test will be greater than ever. By spring, the answer may be clearer. Is the dream of Europe worth the risk of losing ground in the Premier League?

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Chelsea dodged a major upset in the Carabao Cup as Tyrique George scored and assisted another, securing a 2-1 victory over Lincoln City. Lincoln, third in League One, led at half-time after Rob Street took advantage of a stray Enzo Fernandez pass.

The Imps pressed hard and caused Chelsea problems with long throws and strong play. Lewis Montsma nearly gave Lincoln an early lead when his low strike hit the post, while keeper Filip Jorgensen struggled to deal with crosses and high balls. Lincoln’s constant pressure tested Chelsea’s defence, and the Imps had several near chances in the first half.

Chelsea struck back early in the second half. George fired a stinging shot in the 48th minute, then shortly after set up Facundo Buonanotte, who ran through tackles to score the winner in the 50th minute. Lincoln kept fighting, but Chelsea held on to reach the fourth round, leaving the League One side to rue missed chances and lost opportunities in front of goal.

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Chelsea have agreed to Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall's transfer to Everton in a deal worth around £28 million. Everton will pay £24 million upfront, with another £3� million in possible add-ons.

Dewsbury-Hall was unsure about leaving Chelsea after a season where they won the FIFA Club World Cup and UEFA Conference League. However, with limited playing time at Stamford Bridge and behind players like Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez, Dewsbury-Hall is now ready to move for more opportunities.

At the Premier League Summer Series, Everton manager David Moyes said, ‘I think there'll be deals next week. I think we're getting much closer, but I felt that four or five weeks ago as well. Obviously, we're getting near the tickly bits and we've got to get some things done.�/p>

Chelsea, which just signed Dutch defender Jorrel Hato from Ajax, is now focused on selling more players. French midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu, 21, is set to join Burnley, who are also in talks to sign striker Armando Broja. 

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Chelsea’s win in the 2025 Club World Cup suggests they might be prepared to claim the Premier League or Champions League title soon, according to defender Levi Colwill. The 22-year-old played in the surprising 3-0 victory against Paris Saint-Germain at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

The win made the Blues world champions under FIFA's new tournament format. When asked about Chelsea’s chances of using this triumph to secure either league title, Colwill seemed confident.

‘I said at the start of this tournament that our plan is to win it and people looked at me as if I was crazy. So I'm going to say the exact same thing now going into the Premier League and Champions Leagueâ€? Colwill said. 

Colwill shared that this trophy is the biggest he has won so far. He believes the Club World Cup could eventually rival the Champions League in prestige, noting that Chelsea is the first team to win under FIFA’s expanded format. He also mentioned that this victory sends a strong message, and if they keep winning, Chelsea could solidify their status as one of the top football clubs in the world.

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Despite the almost 50,000 empty seats in the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Chelsea proved their experience as they defeated the Los Angeles FC 2-0 in an intense Group Stage match for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. 

Coincidentally, this game is also Liam Delap’s debut match as Chelsea’s forward. He displayed impressive moves in his first 30 minutes by being a team player and setting up his seniors, even getting an assist when Enzo Fernandez scored a goal after his pass. 

Even though Los Angeles FC lost the game, they still have a strong roster that can intimidate their next opponents. World Cup-winning French duo Olivier Giroud and Hugo Lloris are playing for the team. This caused Chelsea some problems, but they ultimately won in the end.

The next fixture for the two teams is already prepared. Chelsea will face the Brazilian team Flamengo, while Los Angeles FC go against ES Tunis this Friday. 

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Chelsea have made a bold move for Mamadou Sarr, signing the 19-year-old from Strasbourg on an eight-year deal with an option for a ninth. Once Lyon’s youth skipper, Sarr played 27 games in Ligue 1 last term and stood out with his calm and sharp play. Now, he links up with Chelsea ahead of their Club World Cup bid.

What Sarr brings to the backline

• Early Career: Sarr started at RC Lens' academy before moving to Lyon at 13. He debuted for Lyon's first team and had a brief loan spell in Belgium.
• Strasbourg Success: In 2024, he joined Strasbourg for £8.5m, quickly becoming a key player as the club secured a spot in the Conference League.
  
• Chelsea Connection: While at Strasbourg, Sarr played alongside Chelsea loanees Andrey Santos and Djordje Petrovic, further solidifying his ties with the Blues.

He led France to youth titles and showed grit during a short spell at Molenbeek. Liam Rosenior, who coached him last year, said his calm under fire is rare. With size, smarts, and time on his side, Sarr fits the plan.

Fan reactions

Fans are thrilled with Sarr's arrival, with many praising his talent and predicting he will become a world-class centre-back. Social media buzz highlights excitement for Chelsea's future, as supporters believe they’ve secured a ‘gem�of a player.

This signing reflects Chelsea's ongoing efforts to invest in young talent while aiming for success on the global stage.

Fitting the framework: Sarr under Maresca’s system

Enzo Maresca wants control. His game starts from the back with calm feet, smart passes, and sharp positioning that suits Mamadou Sarr. The 19-year-old thrives in build-up play and stays composed under pressure. 

Maresca values defenders who think fast and stay cool, and Sarr fits that mould. His smooth passing and awareness make him a natural fit for Chelsea’s deep-possession setup. He doesn’t just clear the ball, but he starts attacks. With the right minutes, Sarr could link Chelsea’s backline and midfield.

What does this mean for Chelsea’s future?

Sarr’s arrival reflects Chelsea’s focus on smart, long-term squad building through the BlueCo model. His move from Strasbourg, where he’s trained alongside other Chelsea-linked talents like Santos and Petrovic, highlights how the club now develops players inside its system.

This setup helps smooth transitions into Maresca’s tactical approach, which demands defenders who stay composed and think fast. With regular injuries and rotation in the backline, Sarr offers the depth and fresh profile needed. 

With the FIFA Club World Cup this month, Chelsea needs ready backups who fit the plan. Sarr may not start, but he brings a style that suits Maresca’s possession-first setup. His presence signals the club’s shift toward young, system-trained talent built for the long haul.

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Three teams are in a stalemate in the English Premier League (EPL) table—Newcastle, Chelsea, and Aston Villa. This standoff has led to fans asking the big question: who has the bigger edge over the other? Explore their recent performances and other fine details to determine which can best the other two. 

Newcastle’s current situation

From April 3 to May 18, 2025, Newcastle won six out of nine of their EPL matches. They also lost two matches and drew one. Some might say their results are volatile, but it is a good display of skill and still means they can win most of their matches. 

Despite this, they still have five players out of play, and one suffers from an Adductor Strain injury—Alexander Isak. The earliest player to return to the field is Kieran Trippier, who is set to return on May 25, 2025. 

Chelsea’s hiccup

Chelsea’s recent win streak was impressive, but their hiccup with Newcastle can mean two things: they’re likely to lose again if they face off, or they’ll exact revenge upon meeting each other on the field. 

However, looking at their previous EPL matches, the lead over their opponents is only one to two points. One can say that they are not fully in control of the field, but many factors can affect this, including powerful opponents or tough playing conditions. 

Aston Villa’s consistency

So far, Aston Villa has had the most consistent performance among the three. Newcastle was a problematic opponent for Chelsea, but to Aston Villa, they destroyed them 4-1. Their only stutter was against Manchester City, where they lost 2-1.  

Considering their performances, they are one of the top performers among the three, but their ‘Goals Forâ€?are the lowest at 58 points. Compared to the other two, who already breached 60 points, they might lag once given the chance to fight Newcastle and Chelsea. 

Who’s likely to lead?

Despite poor recent performances, Newcastle still has a higher chance of topping Chelsea and Aston Villa. Aston Villa might take it for the second, and Chelsea might come last. These assumptions are based on recent English Premier League data, so there is no guarantee that it would happen. 

Expect the unexpected

Football matches are some of the most unpredictable games, so there is no surefire way of knowing who will beat whom. However, based on data, current form, and past results, a calculated deduction can be achieved. 

So far, Newcastle is still in the lead, maintaining a consistent performance that keeps them ahead of the competition. Their recent victories and strong squad dynamics suggest they could hold their position if the momentum continues.

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Arsenal faced a tough match against Brighton in the Women’s Super League, experiencing a 4-2 defeat. This loss marks their second in just a week, shaking their hopes for a strong finish. Brighton took charge early, scoring first and keeping the lead throughout the game. 

Brighton kicked off with a bang, with Fran Kirby scoring a stunning goal in the 16th minute. Caitlin Foord scored an equaliser for Arsenal in the 29th minute. For the rest of the match, Arsenal struggled to find their rhythm as Alessia Russo and Frida Maanum had their shots saved by Brighton goalkeeper Sophie Baggaley.

As the match went on, Jelena ÄŒanković netted two goals for Brighton, adding to their lead. Katie McCabe made a costly error, letting Kiko Seike race through to score the fourth goal. Arsenal scored a consolation goal late in injury time from Mariona Caldentey, but it wasn't enough to change the outcome. With this defeat, Arsenal sits just a point ahead of Manchester United in the standings. 

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Chelsea secured their spot in the Women’s FA Cup semifinals with a narrow 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace at Kingsmeadow on Sunday, March 9. Lauren James�second-half strike broke the deadlock, keeping the Blues�title hopes alive for the season.

Chelsea dominated the ball from the start, putting pressure on Palace’s defence. Aggie Beever-Jones and Catarina Macario both came close to scoring, but their goals were ruled offside. Palace goalkeeper Shae Yañez also held firm after making crucial saves to keep Chelsea at bay.

The breakthrough finally came in the 64th minute. Following a corner, the ball fell to James, who struck a left-footed half-volley from the edge. Chelsea continued to control the game but couldn’t extend their lead.

With this win, the Blues are set to host Liverpool in their semifinal match on Saturday, April 12. The winning team will face either Man City or Man Utd in the finals at Wembley in May.

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