Chelsea enhanced their illustrious record in Europe with a 3-2 win against Napoli, confirming their place in the top eight of the Champions League.
The Blues set up a Round of 16 tie against one of PSG, Newcastle, Monaco or Qarabag, which will be determined following Friday’s play-off draw.
Liam Rosenior had a brilliant Joao Pedro brace to thank for them avoiding these extra two games, as well as the total of £70m earned from the competition so far.
Newcastle, PSG, Qarabag or Monaco – who are YOU picking? 👀
Chelsea's possible last 16 opponents…
The four teams Chelsea could face in the last 16
👇 Join the debate; share your insight. Use the comment button on the bottom left to have your say
Chelsea are one of five Premier League teams who finished in the top eight of the competition, with Arsenal leading the way.
SSC Napoli v Chelsea FC - UEFA Champions League
Photo by Franco Romano/NurPhoto via Getty Images
They were the first team to book their place in the Round of 16, and Amazon Prime stated at the time that no side had qualified for this stage of the Champions League more than the Gunners.
The Blues’ victory on Wednesday saw them overtake this, and Chelsea’s X account wasted little time at poking fun at their London rivals.
They said: “Update the graphic admin” in order for it to show Chelsea at the top of the list with 18 qualifications to the last 16.
It has been more than a decade since the Blues didn’t get through the group stages of the competition. They were eliminated in the groups in 2012/13.
Rate Liam Rosenior’s start as Chelsea head coach 1️⃣-🔟?
Liam Rosenior's record at Chelsea
Photo by Isabella Bonotto/Anadolu via Getty Images
👇 Join the debate; share your insight. Use the comment button on the bottom left to have your say
History is on Liam Rosenior’s side in the Champions League
Both times the Blues have won the Champions League, it has come during a season where they have replaced their manager halfway through.
Roberto di Matteo replaced Andre Villas Boas in 2012 despite limited experience, however he instilled confidence in the top professionals already in the squad.
In 2021, one of those 2012 winners, Frank Lampard, was replaced by Thomas Tuchel in what turned out to be the best defensive campaign in the competition’s history.
Rosenior will be hoping history can repeat itself again this season, and his start to life at Stamford Bridge will have supporters tentatively confident.
Join Our Newsletter
Receive a digest of our best Chelsea content each week direct to your mailbox