Chelsea and Tottenham head into the 2026/27 Premier League season without European football, a factor that historically boosts 'big six' clubs' performances.p>

<p>Since 2008/09, when a 'big six' side dropped out of European competition, 10 out of 11 instances saw improved points tallies and league positions — a 91% success rate. The average improvement was 16 points and nearly five places in the table, with seven of those 11 seasons ending in a top-four finish.</p>

<p>Notable examples include Chelsea's 2016/17 title win under Antonio Conte following a 10th-place finish in 2015/16, and Tottenham's rise from 8th to 5th in 2023/24 under Ange Postecoglou. Both clubs also benefit from new managers, refreshed squads, and increased budgets.</p>

<p>While European absence isn't the sole driver of improvement, it reduces fixture congestion, allowing more complete training weeks and less squad rotation. Chelsea's Xabi Alonso and Spurs' Roberto De Zerbi can expect fewer competitive games, potentially leading to stronger starts and sustained form throughout the campaign.</p>