In the least surprising turn of events ever, the main talking point of the Bayern Munich vs Chelsea game was how poor the refereeing was. It turns out that even in the Champions League, the most serious club competition in the world, referees remain the center of attention.
Regardless, it is great to see the Champions League back. It is a competition that Chelsea has grown to love over the years, winning it twice. That's more than what can be said for any other Southern team in England.
Enzo Maresca just coached his first Champions League game ever, and it was through his own hard work. Sure, Mauricio Pochettino was a great manager for Chelsea, but nobody can deny that Maresca has moved the needle completely and turned Chelsea into a serious club again.
That was on display tonight, as they took the game to Bayern Munich in their own backyard. Chelsea started off strong, and it had it not been for some awful refereeing calls, they would have gone into the second half ahead.
Ultimately, there is little reason for Chelsea to celebrate after that match. If anything, they will feel extremely hard done by.
The game was there for the taking, and Chelsea cannot be faulted for their impressive efforts. Players being in the wrong place at the wrong time cost Chelsea but otherwise, there were plenty of positives for the fans and players to take.
Enzo Maresca just granted Reece James his lifelong wish
Reece James recently said that it was his always his dream to captain Chelsea, but especially in the Champions League. He was appointed captain in August of 2023, under former Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino. For the first time since then, the Blues kicked off in the Champions League again.
In his own words, James said: "Captaining Chelsea was always something I dreamt of, especially in the Champions League. Having been here a while now, and seeing the change and how we've had to adapt, we’re in a good position."
It goes without saying that Reece James has history in the competition. Heck, he's worn the Champions League medal around his neck.
However, tonight was the first time he played a Champions League match as Chelsea captain. In many ways, there couldn't be a more fitting captain for Chelsea on a night like this.
Reece James has been through it all. Through countless injuries, James has always come back hungrier and with a much hotter burning desire to achieve. You can't help but feel like if Chelsea win the Champions League this season, James will have a say in it.