At the start of Chelsea's week in Abu Dhabi there were minor concerns that their opulent hotel in the city's outskirts combined with the warm sun would make it feel a little too like pre-season.
So the importance of departing as world champions, no matter the doubts from many in England around this competition's importance, was driven home from the start.
It meant, in Thomas Tuchel’s absence, they ended up being nervous in Wednesday's semi-final win over Al Hilal but waking up in the emirate this morning there is an undeniable feeling that this is an opportunity that must not be passed up.
