Chelsea will face Paris Saint-Germain in the first leg of their Champions League knockout match at Parc des Princes. This encounter is particularly notable as it is the first since their meeting in the FIFA Club World Cup final in 2025, where Chelsea won decisively 3-0. However, the dynamics have shifted with Chelsea undergoing a managerial change with Liam Rosenior now at the helm, while PSG continues to be led by Luis Enrique, who is under pressure after a challenging group stage performance.

PSG, the reigning Champions League holders, had a rocky path through the group stages this season, finishing in 11th place during the League Phase, which forced them into a playoff round. Despite their high-profile squad and robust history, the team's recent form has sparked concerns as they managed to scrape through to the knockout rounds only after a tense aggregate victory against Monaco. The inconsistency in PSG’s domestic performance raises questions about their capability to reclaim their title, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this crucial match against Chelsea.

For Chelsea, traveling to face a formidable opponent like PSG will be a considerable test, especially following their success in the World Club final. With new management and an evolving squad, they aim to build on their past triumph but will also have to contend with PSG's reputation and talent on the European stage. As both teams are at a pivotal moment in their campaigns, this matchup could have significant implications for their trajectories in the tournament.