Chelsea’s turbulent journey over the past two seasons has led to an unexpected shot at silverware. On May 28, in Wrocław, Poland, the Blues face Real Betis in the UEFA Europa Conference League final, a first for both clubs. While the competition sits below the Champions League and Europa League in prestige, this match carries weight. It offers Chelsea a chance to close out the season with a trophy and a springboard for the new era under Enzo Maresca.
The Italian took over in July 2024, signing a five-year deal after a successful spell with Leicester City. Known for his tactical discipline and emphasis on possession, Maresca has gradually put his stamp on a youthful Chelsea squad. The road to the final has included victories over Dinamo Zagreb, Club Brugge, and Djurgarden, with Chelsea remaining unbeaten in the Conference League campaign.
While much of the conversation revolves around team selection and tactics, there has also been a surge in interest from the betting community. This final has opened up a wide range of markets, including outright winner, scorelines, goalscorers, and bookings. Most sites offering online betting not on GamStop have put Chelsea as firm favourites with odds of 22/25 with Betis at 18/5. A draw is currently priced at around 11/4 with most bookies.
Real Betis, led by Manuel Pellegrini, are enjoying their first-ever European final. The Andalusian club has built a well-organised side with experience and flair. Isco has been central to their run, reviving his form and playing a key role in midfield. Alongside him, Nabil Fekir and Ayoze Pérez have contributed to Betis’ attacking threat, while goalkeeper Rui Silva has been solid between the posts.
Chelsea, on the other hand, has seen breakout performances from Cole Palmer, who has become a regular starter and the team’s leading scorer in Europe. His ability to drift into central spaces and pick out key passes has been vital. In midfield, Moisés Caicedo and Enzo Fernández have developed better chemistry in recent months. While their Premier League form has been inconsistent, they’ve found more control and balance in European matches.
In defence, Chelsea have rotated due to injuries but still managed to maintain strong performances. Djordje Petrović has started most matches in goal since Robert Sánchez’s injury and has grown into his role with several clean sheets in the knockout rounds. The back line, often featuring Levi Colwill, Trevoh Chalobah, and Axel Disasi, has been steady if not spectacular.
Real Betis are not to be underestimated. They knocked out Fiorentina and AZ Alkmaar en route to the final, showing both grit and technical skill. Pellegrini’s experience in European competitions, including a Champions League semi-final run with Villarreal, adds a layer of tactical know-how.
As of early May, Chelsea are slight favourites with most bookmakers, though the odds are narrow. Neutral venue finals tend to be tight, and Betis’ compact shape could frustrate Chelsea if an early goal doesn’t come. Set pieces could be a difference-maker. Chelsea has improved their delivery under Maresca, while Betis is dangerous from corners and indirect free kicks.
In terms of squad news, Christopher Nkunku is reportedly nearing match fitness after an injury-hit season. If included in the matchday squad, his presence would offer a much-needed spark. Conor Gallagher and Malo Gusto have also been regular contributors and are expected to start, assuming no new fitness issues arise.
A win in Wrocław would hand Chelsea their third different European title, completing a continental treble after past victories in the Champions League (2012, 2021) and Europa League (2013, 2019). For a team in transition and under new management, lifting this trophy would carry more weight than many first assumed when the season began.
There’s also the long-term impact to consider. Winning the Conference League secures a place in next season’s Europa League, a helpful boost given Chelsea’s uncertain Premier League finish. Financially, it could support efforts to meet UEFA’s financial regulations and potentially aid summer recruitment.
Maresca has said little publicly about the final, keeping focus on match preparation. His calm, measured approach has won over a dressing room once described as fractured. Whether this final becomes a turning point or just a footnote will depend on how the team responds to the pressure in Poland.
What’s clear is that Chelsea has a chance to end the season with momentum and a medal. It’s not the Champions League, but it’s a European trophy, and in a period of rebuilding, it counts. For the fans, it’s also a trip into history, one they’ll hope ends with blue ribbons and celebration.
