Chelsea could face a tough campaign, midfielder N'Golo Kante has said.
The Blues lost against Arsenal in the Charity Shield on Sunday as they struggled to keep up with the pace and determination of Arsene Wenger's men.
And the Frenchman has urged the club to make more signings in order to compete with Premier League and Champions League rivals.
"It's going to be tough because a lot of teams have strengthened [this summer], which makes it more difficult," Kante told the club's official website.
"The season starts next weekend and we have to be ready.
"I thought we played well, we scored the first goal and we were close to winning.
"After Pedro's red card they scored and it became more difficult for us. In the end they won on penalties, but when it's like that you can win or you can lose."