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Champions League14 August 2026

Shakhtar Donetsk in Talks to Play at Chelsea's Stamford Bridge

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Shakhtar Donetsk in Talks to Play at Chelsea's Stamford Bridge

Shakhtar Donetsk are in talks to play Champions League home games at Chelsea's Stamford Bridge this season, seeking a stable home after years of displacement since the 2014 conflict.

Key Takeaways

  • Shakhtar Donetsk want to play Champions League home games at Chelsea's Stamford Bridge.
  • The club has been unable to use their Donbas Arena since 2014, playing domestic games in Kyiv and Lviv.
  • Chelsea is preferred due to the 40,000-capacity stadium and the relationship since the Mykhailo Mudryk signing.
  • The move aims to connect with 32,000 Ukraine-born residents in London.
  • Hammersmith and Fulham Council and UEFA must approve the fixtures.

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Why Stamford Bridge Is Preferred

Sources say the move is not commercially motivated. The clubs have a strong relationship since Chelsea signed Mykhailo Mudryk in 2023 and through the Game4Ukraine charity match. Stamford Bridge offers 40,000 capacity, while Fulham and Brentford alternatives were smaller.

Connecting with Ukrainian Fans in London

The move is intended to connect with some of the 32,000 Ukraine-born residents in London, with about 100,000 people of Ukrainian heritage in the UK.

The Approval Challenge

Chelsea finished 10th last season, leaving them without European football, so scheduling clashes should be minimal. However, Hammersmith and Fulham Council and UEFA must approve additional fixtures.

Historical Context

Shakhtar have been a footballing nomad since 2014, playing domestic games in Kyiv and Lviv and European home games in Germany, Slovenia, and Poland. This would be their most high-profile temporary home yet.