Maresca Faces Lightning-Fast Squad Shuffle as Chelsea Clash with AC Milan Looms
Chelsea welcome AC Milan to Stamford Bridge for their concluding preseason match, following a swift turnaround after their triumph over Bayer Leverkusen on Friday.
The Blues displayed the form reminiscent of their FIFA Club World Cup-winning campaign upon returning to their home ground, with fresh signings commanding attention. Estêvão particularly impressed as the standout performer, showing energy across all phases of play. The 18-year-old Brazilian sensation broke the deadlock to energize the supporters before João Pedro sealed the victory with a late strike. It was an encouraging display as several players made their debuts, including Jamie Gittens and Jorrel Hato.
AC Milan now provides the final preparation before the campaign kicks off. The Blues face heightened expectations following additional investment after securing two pieces of silverware. Their return to Champions League competition has supporters eager to witness the next phase of development for this squad.
Here's how Chelsea might set up against AC Milan.
Chelsea Predicted Lineup vs. AC Milan (4-2-3-1)
GK: Robert Sánchez—With Maresca opting for Filip Jörgensen in the previous outing, expect the Spanish keeper to return between the posts as he appears set to be the first-choice goalkeeper for the season opener.
RB: Reece James—The Chelsea skipper entered as a substitute and should earn 45 minutes from kickoff in this encounter.
CB: Trevoh Chalobah—Chalobah appears positioned for a significant role in the upcoming campaign following Levi Colwill's injury setback.
CB: Jorrel Hato—Hato featured as a substitute in his first appearance but may receive starting minutes at center-back under Maresca's guidance.
LB: Marc Cucurella—Cucurella's position at left-back shouldn't be threatened by Hato's arrival, with Colwill's injury likely moving the Dutch defender to a central role. Cucurella ranks among the Premier League's finest in his position.
DM: Moisés Caicedo—Caicedo continues to be regarded as one of the league's premier defensive midfielders. Another 45-minute appearance should prepare him adequately for the season ahead.
DM: Enzo Fernández—The Argentine midfielder was absent from the previous match and should feature in the middle of the park.
RW: Pedro Neto—Neto appeared from the bench against Leverkusen and should earn starting minutes following his impressive Club World Cup displays.
AM: Cole Palmer—Palmer was also substituted early in the last game. He should receive additional preseason action against Milan in some capacity.
LW: Jamie Gittens—Chelsea's new left-sided attacker enters the lineup to take Tyrique George's place.
ST: João Pedro—The Brazilian forward netted virtually the final touch against Leverkusen, continuing his impressive beginning to life at Chelsea. He takes Delap's spot in the formation.