Chelsea Drawn Against Bayern and Barcelona in Champions League Return

By Babatunji Wusu

• Chelsea face Bayern, Barcelona, Benfica, Atalanta, Ajax, Napoli, Pafos & Qarabag
• Blues return to Europe’s elite after FIFA Club World Cup triumph
• Historic rivalries with Bayern and Barcelona renewed

Chelsea will mark their return to the Champions League with a demanding league stage campaign against some of Europe’s biggest names, including Bayern Munich and Barcelona.

The two-time European champions will also clash with Benfica, Atalanta, Ajax, Napoli, Pafos and Qarabag under the competition’s expanded league format.

Chelsea last lifted the Champions League trophy four years ago under current England boss Thomas Tuchel and enter this season as FIFA Club World Cup winners.

The draw sets up a renewal of historic rivalries. The Blues have faced Barcelona 14 times in the competition, with both sides boasting eight wins apiece and six matches ending level. Against Bayern, Chelsea famously claimed their maiden Champions League crown in 2012, defeating the Bundesliga powerhouse in its own stadium.

With the expanded format guaranteeing eight matches, Chelsea will have to navigate a demanding schedule if they are to reach the knockout stages.