Chelsea did it. Thomas Tuchel did it. Timo Werner did it. Kai Havertz did it. From a season that looked to have soured irrevocably short-term, they have somehow forged a path to a Champions League final. Again.
They did it this way the last time. Roberto Di Matteo taking over mid-season with the club supposedly in disarray, and Tuchel’s campaign is no less remarkable. He arrived with a remit to ensure qualification for next season’s competition through league position. Get that fourth placed spot.
Instead, Chelsea may return as holders if they can overcome Manchester City in the second all-English final in three seasons.