Player ratings for Chelsea: Champions of Europe once again

Andreas Christensen, Centre-Back, 10/10

Being brought in from the cold to replace one of Chelsea most influential leaders on the pitch in the biggest game in club football is never going to be an easy ask for anyone. Yet, Andreas Christensen looked and played like the pressure did not even exist. The Danish international was calmness personified as he slotted in seamlessly in place of Thiago Silva and did not put a foot wrong in the hour or so that he was on the pitch. From the boy who seemingly crumbles every time something goes wrong on the pitch, the 25-year-old has indeed come a long way since and is 100% deserving of the UCL medal hanging around his neck.

Christian Pulisic, Forward, 10/10

The first American to play in a UEFA Champions League final proper, Pulisic was brought on in place of a rapidly fading Timo Werner and was similarly tasked with hitting Manchester City on the break with his pace. Although the American did miss a guilt-edged chance when played through on goal by Havertz, it was a miss which ultimately had no bearing on the final result whatsoever. It must have been an incredible moment for Pulisic as well as any Americans dreaming of one day making it to the pinnacle of European football and the 22-year-old can most certainly be proud of what he has achieved and inspired in his home country.

Mateo Kovacic, Midfielder, 10/10

Brought on late on into the game in place of the more attacking-minded Mason Mount, Kovacic was most likely instructed to bring much-needed control and possession back into the game as his side attempted to see out an increasingly desperate Manchester City side. Although it was a relatively short cameo, the Croat nonetheless deserves a shout-out for the way he helped Chelsea hold onto the ball. At a moment of the match where cheap giveaways could prove costly, Kovacic was therefore vital in elevating the pressure his side was increasingly being placed under. On a personal note, this is the first time Kovacic has stepped onto the pitch in a final despite having won three consecutive titles with his previous club, Real Madrid. For this reason, Saturday’s victory will feel all the more personal and amazing for Chelsea’s midfield maestro.

How would you rate the Champions of Europe? Let us know in the comments and on Twitter!