How’s this for pedigree?
Ajax are coming off a Champions League semifinal appearance, just seconds short of reaching the final. Chelsea were crowned Europa League champions last season. Valencia were Europa League semifinalists. Lille are coming off their best league season in nearly 10 years. Group H is going to be fun.
| TEAM | TO WIN GROUP | TO QUALIFY | NOT TO QUALIFY |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chelsea | -110 | -400 | +300 |
| Ajax | +250 | -110 | -125 |
| Valencia | +350 | -110 | -125 |
| Lille | +1000 | +300 | +400 |
Group winner
Much like Group G, this one is wide open. Chelsea open as favorites, but it’s a difficult tag for them to live up to. Frank Lampard has no managerial experience in the Champions League and the squad lacks depth as a result of its summer transfer ban. Tammy Abraham has enjoyed an excellent start to the season, but the sample size is small and he’s unproven against top opposition. Chelsea have the makings of a strong side, but there are plenty of question marks keeping the door open for clubs below them.
Ajax’s price seems disrespectful. All the talk is about the losses of Frenkie de Jong and Matthijs de Ligt – understandably so, as they’re two …read more