Chelsea have been predicted to finish in the top four under Mauricio Pochettino next season.
Defeat at Manchester City on Sunday means the Blues were record their worst-ever points tally in a Premier League, which began with Thomas Tuchel in charge, before Graham Potter took over, and will end with a whimper under caretaker Frank Lampard.
Pochettino is expected to be confirmed as Chelsea's new manager in the coming days, signing a three-year deal which will begin with the new season.
And Michael Owen believes Chelsea can return to the Champions League under Pochettino, but their bloated squad needs trimming.
"I think they will [finish in the top four next season]," Owen told Premier League productions.
"The most important thing at that club is to get rid of players. You can never, ever have a squad of that much quality and have harmony.
"You’re constantly draining all your energy trying to keep 30 players happy. I think the main thing now is to get rid of half a dozen players, focus on a smaller pool, and I think they will do alright next season.
"It’s easier said than done… there’s some that will naturally go – whether that be due to age, not being good enough or coming up to the end of their contract."
