Cole Palmer has insisted Chelsea are not in the Champions League just to gain experience, despite their 3-1 defeat to Bayern Munich in their group stage opener. The match at the Allianz Arena marked Chelsea’s return to Europe’s elite competition after over a year away. Though Enzo Maresca’s youthful side was clearly second-best against a well-drilled Bayern team, Palmer dismissed the idea that this season should be treated as a learning experience. “We are not coming here for it to be a learning curve,” said the England international. “We have shown tonight we want to compete and we want to do as best as we can.”
Maresca remained positive, saying the team could “build something special” from the loss. Chelsea have had recent success, winning the Conference League in May and the Club World Cup in July. However, former player Pat Nevin noted the step up in competition. “It was the kind of performance I expected,” said Nevin. “They’re world champions, but the Champions League is a different level. Some players just don’t have that experience yet.”
Chelsea will aim to bounce back quickly and prove they belong on Europe’s biggest stage, not as learners, but as true contenders. Palmer, who joined Chelsea last season, has quickly become a key figure in the team’s attack. His confidence reflects the club’s ambition to re-establish themselves as European heavyweights. The Bayern loss exposed some defensive fragilities and lack of cohesion in Chelsea’s backline. Despite the defeat, Maresca praised his squad’s attitude and willingness to play positively. Chelsea’s next group match will be at Stamford Bridge, where they’ll look to bounce back. Palmer emphasized the importance of learning fast and applying those lessons immediately.
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