Chelsea may not have finished in the top eight, but their Champions League prize money will make them feel a little bit better.
Napoli proved to be a tough test, countering effectively to find the back of the net on two occasions in the first half due to Chelsea’s defensive frailties.
However, Joao Pedro turned things around in the second half for Chelsea with a brilliant brace to secure a top-eight place for the Blues.
This now sees Chelsea advance to the Round of 16, avoiding the dreaded play-off phase.
And that’s not all, as the Champions League prize money just took a healthy boost.
Joao Pedro was Chelsea’s player of the match, but who was the best supporting act?
Napoli 2-3 Chelsea
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Chelsea pocket £70 million from the Champions League so far
The Blues already had £60 million in the back pocket prior to the clash with Napoli, and now qualifying for the Round of 16 sees Chelsea secure a further £10 million (as per The Sun).
This would pay for a new central defender alone, should they decide to spend that kind of money, as Jeremy Jacquet has got a price tag of around £57 million.
Chelsea have been locked in negotiations with Rennes over a potential move for the defender, but they don’t want to lose him just yet and are holding out for the fee.
Chelsea make BANK after progressing to the Champions League Round of 16🤑
But how should the owners spend it?
Chelsea Champions League prize money
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Chelsea need to learn from their mistakes against Napoli
Despite the prize money and a top-eight place being secured, Chelsea must address the defensive issues from the first-half.
It’s an experiment that doesn’t need to be revisited.
Wesley Fofana was completely isolated at times, fighting a battle with Rasmus Hojlund all on his own. And that wasn’t all, as it also took away from Reece James’ game, resulting in him having on influence.
It was only when Trevoh Chalobah came on that Chelsea actually controlled the game.
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