Chelsea player has previously cautioned his teammates about the intense and unfriendly environment at Legia Warsaw, having experienced a defeat there in the past.

Chelsea return to UEFA Europa Conference League action on Thursday night, eyeing progress in their quarter-final clash against Polish side Legia Warsaw.

 

While the Blues are favourites to win the tournament, their next hurdle is a Legia Warsaw side currently fifth in the Polish league, with just 12 wins from 27 matches this season. Although the two clubs have never met before, Chelsea’s young squad may face their biggest test not on the pitch, but in the stands — with the intense atmosphere expected at the Estadi de l’Exèrcit Polonès.

 

Midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, who played against Warsaw during his time at Leicester City in the 2021/22 Europa League campaign, has already warned his teammates. His past experience includes a 1-0 defeat in Poland, and he recalls the passionate, fiery support of Legia’s fans.

 

“I’ve told the lads what to expect. The home crowd will push them on,” he shared via Ben Jacobs. “It was a bit hostile, but in a good way — an unforgettable European experience.”

 

A win on Thursday would boost Chelsea’s hopes of lifting the trophy and help ease pressure on Enzo Maresca, who needs silverware to strengthen his position at the club. Dewsbury-Hall also highlighted the historic opportunity at stake — Chelsea could become the first English side to win all major UEFA competitions.

 

“That alone is enough to keep us pushing,” he said.