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Jose Mourinho: Chelsea can NOT afford to drop into the Europa League
JOSE MOURINHO has emphasised that Chelsea need to qualify for the knockout stages of the Champions League, otherwise it could have serious ramifications for the development of his players.
Mourinho's credentials in Europe's elite competition are unquestioned, as he has lifted the cup with big ears twice with Porto and Inter Milan.
Chelsea have a more straightforward group compared to the other English representatives.
And the Portuguese tactician insists he hasn't even contemplated falling at the first hurdle in the Champions League.
"The competition is part of my history and I'm part of the tournament's history. To win with three clubs would be unique," said Mourinho.
It would be very bad for the evolution of our players to go to Europa League
"Do I want to try to win again? Of course I want to.
"I have many years ahead of me. But in this moment I only think: don't play Europa League.
"It would be very bad for the evolution of our players to go to Europa League.
"We have to qualify. We have to do everything to qualify."