Chelsea FC News Roundup: May 25, 2025

Chelsea Secure Champions League Return with Crucial Win at Nottingham Forest

Chelsea Football Club capped off the Premier League season with a dramatic 1-0 victory over Nottingham Forest at the City Ground, securing their return to the UEFA Champions League for the first time in three years. The win, sealed by a second-half goal from Levi Colwill, ensured Enzo Maresca’s side finished fourth in the table on 69 points, while Forest, who harbored Champions League ambitions of their own, ended seventh with 65 points.

Match Recap

The final day clash was billed as a high-stakes encounter, with both teams vying for European qualification. The first half was a tense, cagey affair, yielding few clear chances and ending goalless. The breakthrough came just four minutes into the second half: Forest defender Neco Williams failed to clear a corner, Pedro Neto poked the ball across goal, and Colwill was on hand to tap in from close range, sending the traveling Chelsea fans into celebration.

Forest pressed for an equalizer, with Chris Wood missing a golden opportunity in stoppage time, but Chelsea’s defense held firm. The result not only confirmed Chelsea’s place among Europe’s elite next season but also consigned Forest to the Conference League—a remarkable achievement for a club that narrowly avoided relegation last year.

“Amazing, we’ve grinded it out all season and today for these fans, we hope they’re happy and get to see some Champions League next season,” said match-winner Levi Colwill.

Team News and Lineups

Chelsea’s starting XI featured Colwill, Caicedo, Madueke, Pedro Neto, and others, with Maresca opting for a balanced approach that prioritized defensive solidity. Substitutions in the second half, including Romeo Lavia and Malo Gusto, helped Chelsea preserve their narrow lead.

Transfer Rumors and Off-Field Headlines

With the season concluded, attention now shifts to the summer transfer window. Reports suggest Chelsea are preparing a €60 million bid for Brighton’s Joao Pedro and are in talks with Real Madrid’s Rodrygo, who could be on the move. Meanwhile, Enzo Fernandez has fueled speculation about his future after being spotted house-hunting in Madrid.

In an unusual twist, Nottingham Forest banned commentator Gary Neville from their ground for this match, opting for an alternative commentary team.

What’s Next?

Chelsea’s campaign is not over yet—they will face Real Betis on Wednesday in the final of the Conference League, aiming to cap off the season with silverware. For Forest, preparations begin for their own European adventure next term.

Summary Table: Chelsea vs Nottingham Forest

Team	Result	Goal Scorer	Final Position	European Qualification
Chelsea	1	Colwill (50')	4th	Champions League (2025/26)
N. Forest	0	—	7th	Conference League (2025/26)

Chelsea fans can celebrate a return to Europe’s biggest stage, while the club’s leadership looks to strengthen the squad for the challenges ahead.