Chelsea’s 2025-26 season concluded with a 10th-place finish in the Premier League, resulting in no European football for the club next term. Following a significant summer transfer window, FootballTransfers has assessed the performance of each new arrival at Stamford Bridge.
Joao Pedro, who arrived from Brighton & Hove Albion for a reported €63.7 million, received an ‘A’ rating, emerging as Chelsea’s most successful signing. The Brazilian forward scored 23 goals in 53 games, leading the line effectively and showcasing the potential that prompted his move. His arrival appeared to resolve long-standing concerns about Chelsea’s need for a consistent goalscorer.
Jamie Gittens, signed from Borussia Dortmund for €56 million, earned a ‘D’ rating. His debut season was hampered by a hamstring injury and a lack of consistent playing time, managing only one goal in 1,102 minutes of action. While glimpses of talent were evident, the club expected a greater impact from the England U21 international.
Alejandro Garnacho, who joined from Manchester United for €46.2 million, received an ‘E’ rating, failing to live up to expectations. Despite performing well against lower-league opposition in cup competitions, he delivered only six goal contributions in 33 games across the Premier League and Champions League, leading to reports suggesting Chelsea are already considering a sale.
Estevao Willian, arriving from Palmeiras for €45 million, was given a ‘B’ rating. Despite being sidelined by injuries for a significant portion of the season, the Brazilian wonderkid still managed eight goals and four assists across all competitions, establishing himself as a fan favorite.
Jorrel Hato, who cost €44.2 million from Ajax, also received a ‘B’ rating. After a slow adaptation to English football, the Netherlands international finished the season strongly, becoming a key player under Enzo Maresca and is expected to be important under incoming manager Xabi Alonso.
Liam Delap, signed from Ipswich Town for €35.5 million, was rated an ‘F’, proving to be the most disappointing of Chelsea’s summer acquisitions. He scored only two goals in 41 games, struggling to replicate his previous form and failing to compete for a starting position. The club is reportedly open to selling him this summer.
Dario Essugo (€22.3m from Sporting CP) received a ‘D’ rating, making only six appearances due to a thigh injury. Mamadou Sarr (€14m from Strasbourg) also earned a ‘D’, spending the first half of the season on loan at Strasbourg before making limited appearances upon his return. Kendry Paez (€10m from Independiente del Valle) is yet to make his Chelsea debut, having been loaned to Strasbourg and then River Plate. Facundo Buonanotte was on loan from Brighton and performed a limited role, earning a ‘D’ rating.
