Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel has admitted that he has been 'surprised' by many tipping his side to be the favourites for this season's Premier League title.
The Blues finished fourth in England's top flight last term but won the Champions League trophy by beating Manchester City 1-0 in the final on May 29.
Chelsea's form under Tuchel has led to suggestions that the capital side will be among the favourites to win the 2021-22 Premier League.
However, the 47-year-old has insisted that his side "have gaps to close to Manchester City" if they are to make a serious challenge for the trophy this term.
"Yes it surprises me. Everybody saw we came fourth. When you come fourth, you are not favourite the next season. We have gaps to close. We let Liverpool pass us, we have gaps to close to Manchester City. I don't see why they should be any worse than last season," Tuchel told reporters.
Chelsea, who beat Villarreal to win the UEFA Super Cup on Wednesday night, will open their 2021-22 Premier League campaign at home to Crystal Palace on Saturday afternoon.
Matt Law
