Sergio Busquets used Chelsea’s Champions League triumph last season as the blueprints for Barcelona’s attempt this time around.
Chelsea claimed their second continental conquering earlier this year, having been steered through the knockout stages by Thomas Tuchel.
Frank Lampard ensured a safe passage out of the group stages, but was replaced before the elimination rounds got underway.
The Blues downturn in domestic results meant they certainly weren’t amongst the bookies and pundits’ preference to reach the final.
Their odds decreased further after it was revealed that Tuchel’s first task in the competition was to overcome Atletico Madrid.
A bicycle kick from Olivier Giroud ensured the German’s tournament journey got off to a perfect start.
Subsequent 2-0 wins over the Spanish side and then Porto propelled Chelsea to a semi-final showdown with 13 times winners Real Madrid.
Tuchel tactically outclassed Zinedine Zidane in the opposite dugout – particularly in the reverse fixture at Stamford Bridge – to set up a scorching showpiece event with Manchester City.
With a Kai Havertz goal and some astute defending later, Chelsea were crowned European victors once again.
Barcelona will be looking to repeat this achievement in the midst of their own, much slower, transitional period.
“Last season Chelsea were not amongst the favourites and they won it. Anything can happen in football,” admitted Busquets.
Ronald Koeman failed to take the Spaniard’s back to their once unrivalled perch at the first go.
His mission appears even more daunting without the presence of Lionel Messi to rely on.
“We know Lionel is not here. We’ve got to try. We are really looking forward to this season,” continued Busquets.
“We are well aware of how difficult it is going to be. We want to start well.”
