Chelsea learn Champions League fixtures: Enzo Maresca's side to face familiar foes and newcomers in League Phase

Chelsea have learned that Barcelona will be one of their eight opponents in the League Phase of the Champions League.

On the back of last season's fourth-placed finish in the Premier League, the Blues are back in European football's premier competition for the first time since 2022-23.

Even having been placed in Pot One, Enzo Maresca knew that his squad would be squaring off against a bare minimum of two European giants.

Instead, the world champions have been provided with what can only be described as a brutal draw with the champions of Spain, Germany and Italy all on their schedule.

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Who do Chelsea play in Champions League?

The showdown with Barcelona at Stamford Bridge is the headline fixture, but Chelsea will also be making the trip to the Allianz Arena to face Bayern Munich.

Meanwhile, the West Londoners also face trips to Napoli and Atalanta BC, with a visit to Azerbaijan to play Qarabag FK another test for the club due to the travel.

Benfica and Ajax will make the trip to England's capital to play Chelsea, as will Cypriot newcomers Pafos after their surprise qualification.

September 16, 17 and 18 will be the dates of the first matchday of eight, the last not coming until January 28.

Chelsea will find out the exact schedule for their eight games on Friday.