Juan Mata: Chelsea want to make history

Chelsea winger Juan Mata says the glory of winning the Champions League will be at the forefront of the players’ minds when they face Bayern Munich next weekend, not qualification for next season’s tournament.

Four points off fifth-placed Newcastle, Roberto Di Matteo’s side will finish sixth in the Premier League, regardless of tomorrow’s result against already-relegated Blackburn.

A win at the Allianz Arena next weekend is the only way Chelsea can qualify for next season’s competition.

It would also make Chelsea the first London side to ever win Europe’s top prize.

“We want to win for the club, and for us, because we can make history for Chelsea,” Mata said.

“But, as well, it’s important to play in the Champions League next year.

“Chelsea always want to be in the Champions League.

“It hasn’t been an easy season for us in the Premier League. We are in sixth position, so it’s not what Chelsea deserves.

“But we won the FA Cup, we have the chance now to win the Champions League as well.

“So, if we win both, it will be an amazing season for us.”

And Mata believes Roberto Di Matteo has been key to the Blues’ recent success.

“Robbie’s a very good guy, a very good person,” Mata added. “He used to play, now he’s training.

“So he’s a very good manager and we are all with him.”