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Merson: If Chelsea don’t get Champions League, it’s a massive, massive failure

In his latest Sky Sports column, Paul Merson gives his view on Chelsea's defeat to Sunderland - as Xabi Alonso's inconsistent start to life at Stamford Bridge continues.

By Paul Merson · Sky Sports

Published: Tuesday, 10 November 2026 at 10:00 AM

Key Things to Know

Paul Merson argues Chelsea lack the consistency required to secure a Champions League qualification place this season.
Chelsea suffered a 1-0 defeat against bottom-placed Sunderland following Enzo Le Fee's first-half penalty.
Merson claims failing to finish in the top five would represent a massive failure for Chelsea.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Writing for Sky Sports, columnist Paul Merson argues that Chelsea lack the required consistency to secure Champions League qualification this season. The critique follows Chelsea's 1-0 defeat to bottom-placed Sunderland under manager Xabi Alonso, courtesy of a first-half penalty scored by Enzo Le Fee, marking their second league loss in three matches.

Merson believes missing out on the Champions League would represent a massive failure for Chelsea. He criticized Alonso's tactical setup and team selection, questioning the decision to bench Estevao, while also highlighting defender Levi Colwill's difficult first-half battle against Sunderland forward Brian Brobbey.

Read the full article on Sky Sports

Merson: If Chelsea don’t get Champions League, it’s a massive, massive failure

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