Chelsea on brink of UCL disaster before even playing Real Madrid

Chelsea could perhaps be on the brink of Champions League disaster before they even tackle the eternal threat of Real Madrid.

The Blues team is in Spain preparing for a UCL Quarterfinal clash with los Blancos. The complete CFC matchday squad is as follows: Kepa Arrizabalaga, Edouard Mendy, Marcus Bettinelli, Trevoh Chalobah, Wesley Fofana, Ben Chilwell, Thiago Silva, Reece James, Kalidou Koulibaly, Cesar Azpilicueta, Marc Cucurella, Mateo Kovacic, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Mason Mount, N’Golo Kante, Denis Zakaria, Conor Gallagher, Enzo Fernandez, Christian Pulisic, Mykhailo Mudryk, Raheem Sterling, Hakim Ziyech, Kai Havertz and Joao Felix.

Frank Lampard, caretaker manager of the west London outfit, will be absolutely delighted to welcome back veteran and legendary centreback, Silva. As you can see above, the Brazilian and Ukrainian winger Mykhailo Mudryk took in the Spanish city on an early walkabout on Wednesday. Following defeat to lowly Premier League side Wolverhampton Wanderers, the Englishman will wish for a better performance abroad with at least a draw and hopefully some Chels’ goals. They are in short supply this season!

Chelsea on brink of potential Champions League disaster before actually beginning Real Madrid tie

You may be surprised to learn that the direct recent form between the clubs is exactly equal. In the previous five fixtures between the two, the English have won twice and the Spanish were also victorious on two occasions. There was one draw in that period.

So, let’s get to the reason you clicked. Any team must really be at full strength when facing a team as dangerous and well-equipped as Real. Happily, there is almost a full roster for Lampard to choose from at present – a major plus point.

However, the Blues have seven stars facing suspension for the all-important second leg at Stamford Bridge. This number includes the vital James, Fernandez and Silva. In addition to that trio, Arrizabalaga, Koulibaly, Gallagher and Mudryk are one yellow card away from missing the deciding contest, too.