Chelsea have made quite a number of changes to their squad from last season, it is normal that after making many changes that they team will need time to play together and build good team chemistry so I think Chelsea are currently lacking that connection between the players especially the incomings. Let’s see how quickly and well they can blend in and make maximum impact this season.
You're right, Chelsea have made some real changes to improve their team, although so far it hasn't gone completely according to plan. Building chemistry with each other is not easy, and it may take time for players to accept the coach's strategy. But at least things are going better now, and Chelsea's ability to handle matches against more evenly matched opponents has shown some improvement. Although we know that competition in the Champions League is very tough and different from domestic leagues, Chelsea needs thorough preparation.
Everything requires a process and Chelsea has been going through that process since last season and even the progress is increasingly visible so I think it is natural that many people favor Chelsea this season because there is a possibility that their performance can improve even more despite the fierce competition that always exists in the Champions League competition but I think Chelsea is still a team that deserves to be taken into account in the competition for the Champions League title this season.