Crystal Palace will not participate in the UEFA Europa League, despite earning their spot by winning the 2024–25 FA Cup, as reported by Ben Jacobs. The setback arises from a conflict involving their owner, John Textor, who also owns Olympique Lyonnais.

Both clubs secured places in the 2025 UEFA Europa League, but UEFA rules restrict owners from having multiple teams in the same competition. Consequently, the English side will compete in the UEFA Conference League, while the French side maintains its position in the Europa League.

“The CFCB First Chamber pursued the assessment of the documentation submitted by Olympique Lyonnais and Crystal Palace and concluded that the clubs breached, as at 1 March 2025, the multi-club ownership criteria foreseen in Art 5.01 of the UEFA Club Competition Regulations,” UEFA reported.

Moreover, Nottingham Forest, who secured a spot in the UEFA Conference League, will be promoted to the UEFA Europa League. Despite this decision, Crystal Palace still have the option to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). The exclusion has sparked controversy, especially since just 12 months ago, Girona FC and Manchester City faced a similar situation and both ended up competing in the UEFA Champions League.

Why did Olympique Lyonnais get the UEFA Europa League spot over Crystal Palace?

Despite sharing the same ownership, Olympique Lyonnais of France’s Ligue 1 secured a spot in the UEFA Europa League over English Premier League side Crystal Palace. This decision adheres to the Multi-Club Ownership Rules, which state that the team finishing higher in its respective league claims the coveted European competition berth.

In this case, Lyon clinched sixth place in the French league, outperforming Crystal Palace’s 12th-place finish in the Premier League. The French side’s financial stability came under scrutiny, but the DNCG, France’s financial watchdog, chose not to relegate the team despite financial issues. Consequently, they retained their position and celebrated their Europa League participation.

No team had ever previously won all three of UEFA’s club tournaments, making Chelsea the first to achieve this historic treble. Before winning the 2025 Conference League, they had been Champions League winners twice (2012 and 2021) and Europa League champions twice as well (2013 and 2019).

Wednesday’s match at the Wrocław Stadium will go down in the history of Chelsea and European soccer. The Blues had fallen behind early after a goal from Abde in the 9th minute, and the outlook looked bleak, as Betis had successfully neutralized their key strengths and dictated the pace of the game.

However, the second half told a different story, showcasing the individual brilliance of Chelsea’s stars. Enzo Fernandez scored the equalizer after an assist from Cole Palmer, who later also set up a goal for Nicolas Jackson. As the match neared its conclusion and with their opponents fully committed to attack, Jadon Sancho and Moises Caicedo extended the lead.

How many titles have Chelsea won in their history?

The UEFA Conference League is the 10th international title for Chelsea and the 37th overall in the club’s history. Outside of England, they had previously won the UEFA Champions League in 2012 and 2021, the Europa League in 2013 and 2019, the UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup in 1971 and 1998, the UEFA Super Cup in 1998 and 2021, and the 2021 FIFA Club World Cup.

Domestically, the Blues have won 27 titles. The most significant are their six league championships (five in the Premier League era and one earlier, in 1955). Those are followed by eight FA Cup titles, five English Football League Cups, four Community Shields, two Full Members’ Cups, and two Second Division titles.

Which teams are close to matching Chelsea’s record?

The list of clubs that have won both the UEFA Champions League and the Europa League is extensive. The former has been played since the 1955-56 season, while the latter had its first edition in 1971-72, giving both tournaments over 50 years of coexistence.

Real Madrid top the list with 15 Champions League titles and two Europa League wins. Bayern Munich have claimed Europe’s top competition six times and the secondary one once; Liverpool have six Champions League trophies and three Europa Leagues. The list continues with other giants such as Inter Milan, Manchester United, Juventus, Feyenoord, Porto, and Ajax.

However, the creation of the Conference League in the 2021-22 season opened a new universe of possibilities, allowing clubs with less continental pedigree to compete in Europe. Chelsea became the fourth team to win the tournament, joining AS Roma, West Ham United, and Olympiacos.

Mudryk has been provisionally suspended by The Football Association (FA), the governing body of soccer in England, since late 2024 after testing positive for meldonium in an anti-doping control. This substance is banned for professional players because it provides an unfair advantage by enhancing oxygen utilization and accelerating energy restoration in the body.

The last match the Ukrainian winger played was on November 28 of last year, when he completed the full 90 minutes in Chelsea’s 2–0 win over FC Heidenheim during the Conference League group stage. Three days later, he was on the bench in the Premier League match against Aston Villa, and he has been sidelined ever since.

This situation will remain unresolved until there is a final decision on his case. As the club awaits the results of the B sample analysis, Mykhailo could face a severe sanction—up to four years of suspension from official competitions at both the club and international level. It is important to note that Mudryk has denied any knowledge of having taken a banned substance.

Mudryk traveled to Poland to support Chelsea

Despite being sidelined for more than six months and with his future uncertain pending the outcome of the counter-analysis, Mykhailo Mudryk still traveled to Poland to support his teammates in their pursuit of Chelsea’s tenth international title.

And that’s not all. If the Blues secure a favorable result and win the 2025 UEFA Conference League, Mudryk will even be eligible to receive a medal. That’s because he played in four matches during the competition before being suspended—scoring three goals and providing three assists.

However, it’s unclear whether Chelsea agree with this scenario. In fact, during the pre-match press conference ahead of the final against Real Betis, head coach Enzo Maresca was asked about Mudryk’s presence and seemed caught off guard: “To be honest, I just… I don’t know, he is here or is coming? He is here? I don’t know. I am happy for Mischa to be here.”

How much did Chelsea pay for Mudryk?

Mykhailo Mudryk’s transfer generated major buzz in England, as it was one of the most expensive deals of all time. The London club paid £89 million (around $120 million), including add-ons, for the winger in January 2023 after he broke out with FC Shakhtar Donetsk.

However, things didn’t unfold as expected. Mudryk never reached the level of performance anticipated from such a high-priced signing. In nearly two years with the Blues, he appeared in 73 matches, scoring 10 goals and providing 11 assists.

Chelsea and Real Betis will face each other today for the 2024-25 UEFA Conference League final, in which both teams are aiming to close the season with a title. However, Jadon Sancho, who has been a key figure for the Blues in the competition, will start the match on the bench.

The reason for his absence in the starting lineup is tactical, as the whole Chelsea squad was available for the match. It’s a telling choice by coach Enzo Maresca, who recently spoke about the possibility of retaining Sancho, who is on loan with the team from Manchester United.

“I don’t know,” said the Italian boss, when asked about the future of the forward. “I said that when in the last weeks you asked me about different players, I always said the same. And the reason why is because it’s the truth,” he explained.

“It’s not the moment, we have the final. Then in 24 hours, 48 hours, we’re going to start to talk about the future. But at this moment, there is not any thought or any decision made on Jadon or any different players,” he added.

In the Conference League, Sancho has scored one goal and produced five assists. He is also coming from starting in both legs of the Blues’ semi-final triumph over Djurgarden. This could potentially be his last match for the club, unless he gets a chance to impress the bosses.

Chelsea’s lineup for the UEFA Conference League final

As we said, Chelsea have all their players available, after Nicolas Jackson returned from a two-game suspension, while Christopher Nkunku is fit again after injury. So, Maresca opted for this lineup against Real Betis: Filip Jorgensen; Malo Gusto, Trevoh Chalobah, Benoit Badiashile, Marc Cucurella; Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez; Pedro Neto, Cole Palmer, Noni Madueke; Nicolas Jackson.

Meanwhile, Real Betis, coached by Manuel Pellegrini, are playing with: Adrian; Youssouf Sabaly, Marc Bartra, Natan, Ricardo Rodriguez; Isco, Johnny Cardoso, Fornals; Antony, Cedric Bakambu, Abde Ezzalzouli.

The match started with Real Betis taking the early lead, thanks to a stunning goal from Abde Ezzalzouli in just the 8th minute. By halftime, the Spanish side maintained their advantage, controlling much of the game and keeping Chelsea’s attack at bay.

However, the second half saw a dramatic turnaround. Within a blistering five-minute stretch, Chelsea flipped the script. Goals from Enzo Fernandez and Nicolas Jackson not only leveled the score but gave the Blues the lead. From there, it was all Chelsea, as Jadon Sancho and Moises Caicedo added to the tally, sealing the victory and lifting the trophy in dominant fashion.

Here are the best highlights of the game!

[Watch Real Betis vs Chelsea online for FREE in the US on Fubo]

As the Conference League final kicks off, Chelsea arrive as heavy favorites after a dominant tournament run capped by a crucial win over Nottingham Forest that secured their Champions League spot—and now they’re hungry to finish their season with silverware.

Betis, though firmly cast as underdogs, have the attacking flair and defensive resilience to threaten the London side’s ambitions, setting the stage for a thrilling clash between two of Europe’s top-league contenders.

When will the Real Betis vs Chelsea match be played?

Real Betis will face Chelsea this Wednesday, May 28, in the 2024-25 UEFA Conference League final. Set to kick off at 3:00 PM (ET).

Real Betis vs Chelsea: Time by State in the USA

ET: 3:00 PM
CT: 2:00 PM
MT: 1:00 PM
PT: 12:00 PM

How to watch Real Betis vs Chelsea in the USA

Get ready for this 2024-25 UEFA Conference League clash between Real Betis and Chelsea. USA fans can catch every moment live on Fubo with a free trial. Other options: CBS Sports Network, TUDN, Paramount+, DirecTV Stream, ViX.

Chelsea have found new energy under the guidance of their coach Enzo Maresca. The arrival of the Italian manager has injected fresh life into their project. Despite spending millions, the team now seems to have found a clear path forward. Cole Palmer has emerged as their most influential player. He has been a key figure in their revival and their strong UEFA Conference League performance.

Real Betis, on the other hand, have been building their sporting project for five years. Despite facing multiple financial challenges, coach Manuel Pellegrini has established a well-organized squad. The team recently eliminated the Italian side Fiorentina in the Conference League semifinals. Key players like Johnny Cardoso, Isco Alarcon, and Antony Santos have been central to their success.

With that, Pellegrini has built a highly consistent team. Betis finished in 6th place in LaLiga, which gives them a chance to qualify for European competitions. Additionally, they now have their best opportunity to win their first European title in club history. This situation stands in stark contrast to their English counterparts, who have already secured two UEFA Champions League trophies.

Chelsea’s lineup vs Real Betis

After a season marked by injuries, Chelsea head into the UEFA Conference League final with a fully available squad, as Nicolas Jackson returns from a two-game suspension and Christopher Nkunku is fit again after injury. With a healthy roster at his disposal, manager Enzo Maresca will be relying on his talented group to secure the coveted trophy.

Looking ahead to the final, this will be Chelsea’s starting eleven: Filip Jorgensen; Malo Gusto, Trevoh Chalobah, Benoit Badiashile, Marc Cucurella; Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez; Pedro Neto, Cole Palmer, Noni Madueke; Nicolas Jackson.

Real Betis’ starting lineup vs Chelsea

Ahead of the upcoming final game, Manuel Pellegrini will be without three key players: Diego Llorente, Marc Roca, and Hector Bellerin. With that in mind, their lineup will look like this: Adrian; Youssouf Sabaly, Marc Bartra, Natan, Ricardo Rodriguez; Isco, Johnny Cardoso, Fornals; Antony, Cedric Bakambu, Abde Ezzalzouli.

Chelsea cruised through the tournament with little resistance. Their only close call came during the playoff round against Servette, where they edged out a 3–2 aggregate win. From there, the Blues went unbeaten in the group stage and conceded just four goals in six knockout-round matches, from the Round of 16 through the semifinals, while scoring 12.

Real Betis, by contrast, had a more turbulent journey. The Spanish side had to grind out results in the inaugural edition of this revamped UEFA competition, designed for clubs that fell short of Champions League and Europa League qualification. In their toughest test, Betis needed extra time to eliminate Fiorentina, scoring a dramatic equalizer in regulation before sealing the win in overtime.

What happens if Chelsea win the UEFA Conference League?

If Chelsea lift the Conference League trophy, they’ll also earn an automatic berth in next season’s Europa League. However, they’ve already locked in a spot in the 2025–26 UEFA Champions League via domestic qualification. That sets up a unique scenario: Chelsea must forgo the Europa League slot, which will then be redistributed.

According to UEFA official guidelines, that vacated spot will go to the club with the highest individual coefficient among those that reached the Europa League main path or playoff rounds but haven’t yet secured direct entry into the league phase. That team must also be either a domestic cup winner or the highest-ranked club from their national association without Europa League access.

What happens if Betis win the UEFA Conference League?

A Betis win would also guarantee a Europa League berth next season. But unlike Chelsea, the Spanish club already secured Europa League qualification through their sixth-place finish in La Liga. In this case, their victory won’t trigger a reallocation, it simply reaffirms their place in the competition.

While the UEFA Conference League final won’t directly alter either club’s European path next season, it still holds enormous significance. For Chelsea, a win would etch their name in history as the first club to capture all three of UEFA’s major trophies: the Champions League, Europa League, and Conference League. For Betis, it’s a chance to claim their first European title and add to the club’s growing legacy.

For Betis, this represents a historic opportunity, as it would be their first continental trophy, marking a significant milestone in their growth on the international stage. For Chelsea, it’s a chance to reassert their dominance in European soccer and end an inconsistent season with a victory that could restore their place among the elite.

The match promises to be a tactical battle, with Betis relying on their defensive balance and the creativity of players like Isco and Nabil Fekir, while Chelsea will look to impose their game with the pace and firepower of Cole Palmer and Christopher Nkunku. Both sides arrive in strong form and will need to bring their best to emerge victorious.

What happens if Chelsea and Real Betis draw?

If the match ends in a draw after the standard 90 minutes, the game will go into extra time—30 minutes divided into two halves of 15 minutes each. During this period, either team will have the chance to score and decide the match without heading to penalties.

If the tie remains after extra time, the winner will be determined by a penalty shootout. Each team will take five penalty kicks, and if the tie persists, the shootout will proceed to sudden death, where the first team to miss while their opponent scores will lose the title.

What’s at stake for next season?

The winner of the final won’t just take home the UEFA Conference League trophy, but will also secure a place in the 2025–26 UEFA Europa League. However, both teams have already ensured European soccer for next season through their domestic leagues: Chelsea have qualified for the UEFA Champions League via the Premier League, while Real Betis have secured a Europa League spot through LaLiga. Despite that, the final remains highly significant.

For Betis, winning would mark their first-ever European title and reinforce their growth on the continental stage. For Chelsea, it’s an opportunity to cap off the season with another international trophy and further boost their presence in European competitions.

With Betis chasing their first European title and Chelsea aiming to reestablish their international dominance, the final is shaping up to be an intense battle. Will we see a winner in regulation time, or will penalties be needed to crown the champion?

[Watch Chelsea vs Djurgarden online in the US on Paramount+]

Despite carrying a commanding 4-1 advantage into the second leg at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea know better than to underestimate Djurgarden—soccer’s unpredictability means even the Blues can’t afford to coast.

With Champions League qualification on the line, manager Enzo Maresca is poised to give several reserves a run-out in what looks like a straightforward trip to the final, but that lineup rotation could hand Djurgarden the sliver of opportunity they need for a stunning comeback.

When will the Chelsea vs Djurgarden match be played?

Chelsea will face Djurgarden this Thursday, May 8, in the second leg of the UEFA Conference League semifinal. Set to kick off at 3:00 PM (ET).

Chelsea vs Djurgarden: Time by State in the USA

ET: 3:00 PM

CT: 2:00 PM

MT: 1:00 PM

PT: 12:00 PM

How to watch Chelsea vs Djurgarden in the USA

Get ready for this 2024/2025 UEFA Conference League clash between Chelsea and Djurgarden the match set to be broadcast live in the USA. Fans can catch every thrilling moment of the action on Paramount+ and ViX.

[Watch Djurgarden vs Chelsea online in the US on Paramount+]

Chelsea face a pivotal showdown in the UEFA Conference League, their lone remaining path to silverware this season and a potential lifeline to secure Europa League qualification if their Premier League campaign falls short.

With intense competition for Champions League spots domestically, the Blues can’t afford to miss this opportunity. Standing in their way are Djurgarden, a Swedish side eager to make a statement with a major upset on the European stage.

When will the Djurgarden vs Chelsea match be played?

Djurgarden will host Chelsea this Thursday, May 1, in the first leg of the UEFA Conference League semifinal. Set to kick off at 3:00 PM (ET).

Djurgarden vs Chelsea: Time by State in the USA

ET: 3:00 PM

CT: 2:00 PM

MT: 1:00 PM

PT: 12:00 PM

How to watch Djurgarden vs Chelsea in the USA

Get ready for this 2024/2025 UEFA Conference League clash between Djurgarden and Chelsea the match set to be broadcast live in the USA. Fans can catch every thrilling moment of the action on Paramount+ and ViX.