Chelsea could host Champions League football at Stamford Bridge next season despite Xabi Alonso’s side missing out on European qualification.
Shakhtar Donetsk are considering using the west London stadium as their temporary European home while restrictions continue to prevent them from hosting matches in Ukraine.
According to The Chelsea Chronicle, Ukrainian journalist Ihor Burbas claims Shakhtar have narrowed their search to Stamford Bridge and Fulham’s Craven Cottage.
Brentford’s Gtech Community Stadium had also been discussed, but its capacity of around 17,000 is reportedly considered too small.
No final decision has been made, and Chelsea have not officially confirmed negotiations with Shakhtar.
Stamford Bridge move could hand Chelsea unexpected windfall
Hosting Shakhtar could provide Chelsea with additional income through stadium rental, hospitality and other matchday revenue.
Stamford Bridge can accommodate around 40,000 supporters, giving Shakhtar a larger potential audience than Craven Cottage. Its location and Champions League infrastructure could also strengthen Chelsea’s position.
However, the club would need to manage a busier stadium schedule. Chelsea Women will play every Women’s Super League home match at Stamford Bridge during the 2026/27 campaign.
Chelsea would also need to consider pitch maintenance, policing and possible clashes with domestic fixtures before approving any agreement.
Shakhtar have played European home matches in Poland, Germany and Slovenia since leaving Ukraine. A London switch would give the Ukrainian club access to a large local audience and established transport links.
For Chelsea supporters, seeing another club host Champions League nights at Stamford Bridge would feel unusual. From a commercial perspective, the arrangement could turn unused midweek dates into a useful revenue stream.
