Chelsea have had a dream for the past nine years. In 2003, Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich bought the London club. The target since then has not just been winning England’s top flight, won once previously in 1955, but also moving up to the next level. Chelsea visit the Allianz Arena to face Bayern on 19 May in search of the Champions League title.
Chelsea have had their worst season in the Premier League since Abramovich took over. Apart from third place in 2009, Chelsea have always finished no lower than second in the league and they were crowned Premier League winners three times in 2005, 2006 and 2010 - they are currently in sixth spot. Coach André Villas-Boas, who was signed from Europa League winners FC Porto last summer, was relieved of his duties in March. His assistant coach Roberto Di Matteo, who played for Chelsea from 1996 to 2002, was appointed as caretaker manager until the end of the season.
Sensation at Camp Nou
The Italian placed his trust in stalwarts Frank Lampard (33), Didier Drogba (34) and John Terry (31) and restored them to the starting eleven. Secondly, he reorganised the team in a more defensive formation - and they suddenly started winning again. The previous 15 competitive matches under Di Matteo have ended in 10 wins and just one defeat, away to Manchester City. Chelsea reached the final of the FA Cup and turned round a 3-1 deficit against Napoli in the first leg of the Round of 16 to go through to the quarter-finals on the back of a 4-1 win in extra time. They then knocked Benfica out with a 1-0 away win and a 2-1 victory at Stamford Bridge. And then came the clash with Barcelona.
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