Galatasaray striker Didier Drogba admits that Chelsea still hold a special place in his heart, but he has warned his former club that he is ready to fire the Turkish side into the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League.
The Ivorian left Chelsea after scoring the winning penalty in the 2012 Champions League final against Bayern Munich, but he is now preparing to face his former club for the first time.
The former Marseille striker moved to Stamford Bridge in 2004 and he admits he still owes a lot to Jose Mourinho following their successful spell together.
Galatasaray host Mourinho’s side in the first leg in Turkey on Wednesday, and although Drogba is excited to face his former club, he admits he won’t feel guilty to dump them out of the competition.
“After the draw Jose texted me to say, ‘it’s your moment, enjoy it’,” said Drogba.
“People know how much I love the club and the fans. I can’t forget what I’ve done there and all the memories of the club. Chelsea will always have a special place in my heart. And in my life.
“I feel young. I want to play even when it’s a friendly. I still feel like a kid running after the ball. I want to play as much as I can.
“I will still be happy to score because I also want to qualify for the next round. But you have to show respect.”
The Blues are 2.02 to win on Wednesday night, but Roberto Mancini’s side are dangerous at home and can be backed at odds of 3.67.
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