Chelsea Champions League draw: Blues to face Ajax, Valencia and Lille in 2019 group stage
The Blues have never faced the Dutch giants, who were the revelation of last season’s competition
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Chelsea will play Ajax in Group H of this season's Champions League group stage.
The Blues are back in the competition after a year out and enter as Europa League winners.
Joining Frank Lampard's side and last year's semi-finalists are Valencia and Lille in what appears to be a wide open group.
Fixtures (8pm KO unless stated)
September 17: Valencia (h)
October 2: Lille (a)
October 23: Ajax (a) - 17: 55
November 5: Ajax (h)
November 27: Valencia (a) - 17:55
December 10: Lille (h)
Frank Lampard's side will hope the minimal travel will work in their favour in their top four battle.
BIG ERIC UPDATE!
So, my colleague, who has just spend the past few moments frantically transcribing his little speech, informs me that Cantona was quoting from Shakespeare's King Lear. Is there anything he can't do!?
Oh, they've got Petr Cech on stage now by the way. He'll be carrying out the draw alongside Wesley Sneijder.
Time for the goalkeeper of the season. And the winner is... Alisson!
Okay, the first part of the draw is due to start. Finally. Here we go!
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments