Chelsea are champions of England and will play in the Champions League next season, having missed out this past campaign following a 10th position finish in the 2015/16 season.

Antonio Conte guided Chelsea to a Premier League title in his debut season in England and Gianluigi Buffon believes his former Juventus and Italy coach can guide Chelsea to a good fight in the Premier League.

Buffon, who won three consecutive Serie A titles with the Old Lady of Turin under Conte, said: “He can make Chelsea strong in Europe – that is for sure.

“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.

“Next season, under Conte, I expect that Chelsea will be one of the big challenges in the Champions League. Then coaches like Pep (Guardiola) and (Jose) 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.”