Former France defender, William Gallas, has said Chelsea is likely to finish in fifth or sixth place this season.
The Blues produced a late run of form last campaign to end up in sixth place under Mauricio Pochettino.
They missed out on a Europa League spot, because Manchester United defeated Manchester City in the FA Cup final.
Pochettino has since been replaced by Enzo Maresca, who has endured an indifferent preseason with Chelsea.
Gallas told Genting Casino: “Chelsea will have to improve on last season, but from what I’ve seen they might end up in fifth or sixth.
“For a club like Chelsea, that is unacceptable. Chelsea have played to win the Premier League for so long, fighting for the top four shows there is a big problem. They need trophies and not just trying to qualify to play for trophies.”
