Ballack: Chelsea don't buy titles

Michael Ballack believes suggestions that Chelsea are buying success are wrong.

The German joined The Blues on a free transfer this summer, along with £30 million striker Andrei Shevchenko.

Big name signings have been a regular feature at Chelsea since Roman Abramovich became owner in 2003, but Ballack has insisted they are not the only team in Europe to splash the cash.

The 30-year-old is adamant that if Chelsea win the UEFA Champions League this season their achievements should not be dismissed.

"Chelsea are not the only team buying players. Sometimes they make bigger purchases, and that stands out - but other teams buy big as well," he pointed out.

"Real Madrid, Italian teams, German teams - they all buy players. But if you are not successful then you are just a buyer of players.

"Not Chelsea. You don't just pick any players; you have to pick the right players to fit together and get a good mood in the team.

"Chelsea is one of those teams that doesn't have big words about success; they are more laid-back and just let the success speak for itself.

"That's why we are not going to say big things about the Champions League right now."

Ballack is determined to win the Champion League before hanging up his boots, and he is hoping this could be his year.

"I want to win a big trophy before I retire, and the Champions League is my aim. It is something I am looking to achieve," he said.

"People say that Chelsea will have a better chance this season, and I think that's true. But whether I am the last piece in the jigsaw, I can't say."