Shakhtar Donetsk to play Champions League home matches at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea will not play in this season’s Champions League, but Stamford Bridge will still stage Champions League matches after Shakhtar Donetsk announced it will base its home fixtures in London.

The Ukrainian club said it selected London because continuing conflict at home has forced it to host matches abroad for years. Shakhtar confirmed the move on its official website and expressed gratitude to Chelsea for allowing the club to use Stamford Bridge as its match venue for the competition.

Shakhtar thanks Chelsea

In its announcement the club said: "Playing Champions League matches at Stamford Bridge will be a special opportunity and a privilege for Shakhtar. We are grateful to Chelsea for their hospitality at this special place. It is one of the most famous stadiums in the world, with an incredible history and atmosphere. We are convinced that our team's matches will give unforgettable emotions to all football fans."

Reports in recent days indicated Shakhtar had negotiated with several London clubs about renting stadiums for its Champions League home fixtures; Brentford and Fulham were also reportedly considered, but Stamford Bridge emerged as the preferred option.

Chelsea agreed to host the Ukrainian side’s matches despite the west London club itself not qualifying for the Champions League this season, meaning Stamford Bridge will nonetheless welcome elite European competition this campaign.

The arrangement continues a period in which Shakhtar has had to play “home” games outside Ukraine because of the war, choosing temporary bases in other countries while the situation at home remains unresolved.

Photo: press material from the event