Cesc Fabregas shows disappointment at playing in Europa League

The Spanish playmaker has played over 100 games in the Champions League for his three clubs over a 15-year career as a professional footballer, but has never played in Europe's second-tier club competition.

The 2016-17 champions had a miserable season last year, finishing fifth in the Premier League to miss out on a place in the Champions League for the coming season.

As a result, Chelsea will have to play in the competition for the second time in 6 years with the player taking to Twitter to humourously acknowledge the fact.

 

July 5, 2018

Rafa Benitez led them to winning the trophy in 2012-13, but it is unclear who will be their manager going in to this season's campaign.

It has long been reported that Antonio Conte would be dismissed from his role following the disappointment of last season, with fellow Italian Maurizio Sarri coming in to replace him.

However, Conte is still in the post and with Fabregas and co. about to head back for the beginning of preseason training, Chelsea's preparations for the coming season could be turned on their head should a managerial change come now.