The 40-year-old has returned to Stamford Bridge as Sarri's replacement, but the bookmakers believe they face a battle to retain their top four status
Chelsea have chosen Frank Lampard as the man to replace Maurizio Sarri following a tempestuous one-season spell at Stamford Bridge.
The 41-year-old has a tough task on his hands, certainly according to the bookmakers as bet365 offer 25/1 (26.0) that Chelsea win the top-flight title in his debut campaign in the Stamford Bridge dugout.
It's 3/1 (4.0) that the Blues win any major trophy in the 2019-20 campaign. That includes the league title, FA Cup, League Cup or a European crown. The same firm offer 1/3 (1.33) that the Blues don't win a major trophy.
bet365’s Steve Freeth said “Lampard did a lot better than many expected in his first season in management and a return to Chelsea, however early, was always going to be hard to resist. However, a transfer embargo and the loss of Eden Hazard, means he could find it difficult to better Sarri’s efforts of last season.”
Despite a third-place finish under Sarri, bet365 offer 11/10 (2.10) that Chelsea achieve a top four spot in the 2019-20 season and it's 11/8 (2.38) that Lampard leads his new side to two league wins over former club West Ham.
Leading duo Manchester City (1/33) and Liverpool are expected to retain their Champions League status with the battle for the other two positions emerging between Lampard's side, Tottenham (8/15), Manchester United (11/10) and Arsenal (5/4).
A Europa League triumph does guarantee Chelsea a place in Europe's premier club competition next term and bet365 go 33/1 (34.0) that the Blues replicate their 2012 success.
And according to williamhill.com, there are more special odds about Lampard.
Frank Lampard to be August Premier League Manager of the Month: 7/1
Frank Lampard to be Premier League Manager of the Season: 20/1