Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho believes it is vital that the club progress to the knockout stages of the Champions League as it will benefit their exciting young players.
Despite being the defending champions, the Blues failed to make it past the group stages last term, with them having to make do with a place in the Europa League, a competition they eventually won, justifying their status as betting favourites in the odds.
However, the return of the ‘Special One’ has generated a new buzz around Stamford Bridge and they are now expected to challenge for success on all fronts, despite a Matchday One loss to Basel at home.
European glory is what ambitious owner Roman Abramovich craves the most though and Mourinho believes playing in the latter stages of the Champions League will only boost his side’s development.
“We want to qualify for the next stage,” the Portuguese coach said. “If you ask me for my objective, I just want to qualify for the next group stage. It’s important for the kids.
“It’s important for everyone. We start the match with four players under 22. And that, as we think in the club and the evolution of the club, is very important to play in a big stage.”
The last few years have seen somewhat of a change in direction for the West Londoners with them now looking to sign exciting young talent from around the globe, rather than fork out extortionate amounts on world stars.
The summer arrivals of Andre Schurrle and Willian, combined with the likes of Juan Mata, Eden Hazard and Oscar means Chelsea now have an attack that can not only compete with Europe’s best, but also may well be able to dominate in years to come.
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