Antonio Conte will bring “more quality” to Chelsea this summer but needs to be wary of Manchester rivals United and City, says Gianluigi Buffon.
The Italian guided the Blues to the Premier League title in his first season at the helm, with a lack of European football playing into the hands of those at Stamford Bridge.
That will not be the case next season, with Chelsea among five English sides entering the Champions League, and they will need greater depth to their squad.
Chelsea star Fabregas trolls Trump
Buffon, who worked with Conte at Juventus, expects there to be plenty of movement over the coming weeks, with the likes of Jose Mourinho and Pep Guardiola also looking to kick on after 12 months at their respective clubs.
"He [Conte] can make Chelsea strong in Europe – that is for sure," Buffon, who is readying himself for a Champions League final date with Real Madrid on Saturday, told Mediaset.
"They already have players like [Eden] Hazard who, for me, is already one of the top five players in the world, and this summer I'm sure they will bring in more quality.
Getty Images
"Much has been spoken about how passionate and fiery Conte can be, which is true, but the reality is he gets so much from his players because he gives so much.
"He will never switch off from the game. Even now, I'm sure he is lying on a beach with his family but he will be thinking about next season, trying to sign new players, how the team can improve. He gives everything.
Terry: I had daily injections under Mou
"Next season, under Conte, I expect that Chelsea will be one of the big challengers in the Champions League.
"Then coaches like Pep and Mourinho, who have had a lot of success in Europe, will also be strong.
"It will be their second season with their clubs and they can also challenge."
