Real Betis manager Manuel Pellegrini has revealed that he exchanged messages with Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca after the UEFA Europa Conference League Round of 16 draw, expressing his belief that their teams could meet in the final.

When asked about avoiding Chelsea in the draw, Pellegrini shared his lighthearted message to Maresca:

“I sent him a message telling him that we would see them in the final. It will not be easy by any means.”

Chelsea, who have been drawn against FC Copenhagen, are considered strong favourites to progress past the Round of 16, having won all their matches in the competition so far.

With the Blues aiming for European silverware under Maresca, the challenge is now on Real Betis to live up to Pellegrini’s prediction and set up a potential showdown with Chelsea in the final.