Reece James Issues Bold Challenge: Can Chelsea Defy All Odds in Champions League?

Chelsea are back on the grandest stage in European football this Wednesday, and if you ask captain Reece James, the Blues have every right to aim for the stars. After a break from the Champions League scene since the 2022-23 season, they’re gearing up to face none other than Bayern Munich—no easy task, mind you. Chelsea’s Premier League outing has been promising so far, cruising unbeaten with eight points from four matches, even if they did suffer a late heartbreak against Brentford last weekend. But James isn’t deterred; he’s fueled by determination and a belief that Chelsea belong here—among the giants. With the Club World Cup already in their trophy cabinet, the European crown could be within reach if they play their cards right. It’s a daunting challenge against a seasoned Bayern side, but this Chelsea squad, steeled by change and growth, feels ready to make their mark once again. LEARN MORE.

Chelsea begin their Champions League campaign on Wednesday, and captain Reece James believes they can afford to dream big.

The Blues visit Bayern Munich in their first game of the league phase, with Chelsea set to play in the Champions League for the first time since the 2022-23 season.

Chelsea have made an unbeaten start to the new Premier League campaign, taking eight points from the first four games.

And, despite conceding a 93rd-minute equaliser against Brentford on Saturday, James is optimistic over Chelsea’s hopes of adding the European crown to their Club World Cup title.

“The Champions League is where the club belongs,” James told Chelsea’s official website.

“We’re happy to be back playing against the best teams and competing in the best competitions, because we haven’t been in this one for the last two seasons.

“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.

“We finished last season super strong and I hope this season we can build on that. I don’t look at what other people say; we can achieve anything as long as we understand and believe. 

“We know we can go far with the team we have. That’s all that matters.”

On the test posed by Bayern, James added: “They are always super strong. They are a European giant, and they have won the competition before and know what it takes. So, it will be a super tough game.”