Didier Drogba, nearing 36 years of age, is set to face his former mentor José Mourinho and his beloved former club, Chelsea, in the Champions League round of 16.
Beyond the match itself, Drogba will also celebrate the Champions League title he helped Chelsea win in 2012 alongside his former teammates. Petr Cech, Chelsea’s goalkeeper, expressed his anticipation to reunite with Drogba on the field.
“I’m eager because it’s a big occasion and it’s also my first time playing at this stadium. Facing Drogba is also a first for me. We all know his significance, so we’ll have to approach the game carefully against him. We’re in a good period right now, things are going well for us, and we want it to stay that way,” said Cech.
Drogba, who played a pivotal role in Chelsea’s 2012 Champions League triumph, acknowledges the emotional complexity of facing his former club.
“It will be emotionally challenging to play against Chelsea. You don’t spend eight years in a city you don’t love. When you’re happy at a club, you want to stay there forever. But sometimes, you can’t control everything. I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished,” explained Drogba.
