Summer Signing Set for Debut as Maresca Reveals Chelsea's Lineup Strategy Against LAFC
Chelsea kick off their FIFA Club World Cup campaign on Monday with a match against Major League Soccer side LAFC.
Enzo Maresca's squad had a successful previous season, clinching the UEFA Conference League title for the first time and securing a top-four finish in the Premier League. The Blues have been active in the summer transfer window, already acquiring former Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap. He's expected to play a significant role this summer as he competes with Nicolas Jackson for the starting striker position.
Chelsea are tipped as favorites not only to beat LAFC in their opening fixture but also to top their group and advance deep into the tournament. LAFC secured their qualification at the last moment by defeating Club América in a play-off after Club Leon's disqualification due to multi-club ownership violations.
Maresca would welcome the chance to test his team against powerhouses like Paris Saint-Germain or Real Madrid if possible, though he's taking a game-by-game approach. Teams are expected to treat this profitable summer competition with seriousness, and as the tournament progresses, we should see increasingly stronger starting lineups.
Below is how Chelsea might set up against LAFC on Monday.
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Chelsea Predicted Lineup vs. LAFC (4-2-3-1)
GK: Filip Jörgensen—While Chelsea may acquire a new goalkeeper this summer, Jörgensen has the opportunity to showcase his abilities after being the first choice throughout their UEFA Conference League campaign.
RB: Malo Gusto—Though Reece James is widely considered the preferred right back, Gusto could be selected to start in the Club World Cup opener.
CB: Levi Colwill—Colwill netted the decisive goal in Chelsea's final Premier League match to help them secure Champions League qualification.
CB: Tosin Adarabioyo—The defender who joined from Fulham made 37 appearances across all competitions in his first season with Chelsea.
LB: Marc Cucurella—The Spanish full-back emerged as one of the Blues' most vital players last season, contributing some critical goals for Enzo Maresca's side.
DM: Moisés Caicedo—The Ecuadorian established himself as one of the premier midfielders in his position throughout last season.
DM: Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall—After following Maresca from Leicester City to Chelsea last summer, Dewsbury-Hall struggled to find regular playing time. The Club World Cup presents a significant opportunity for him to establish his place in the team.
RW: Pedro Neto—Neto arrives at Chelsea's camp fresh from winning the UEFA Nations League with Portugal.
AM: Cole Palmer—Chelsea's star player is expected to start the opener after contributing to 23 goals in the league (15 goals, eight assists).
LW: Tyrique George—The 19-year-old prospect could receive substantial playing time this summer. He's started in various positions across the front line but made most of his appearances (12) on the left wing.
ST: Liam Delap—A significant debut awaits Delap following his move from relegated Ipswich Town. The former Manchester City youth product could get an immediate chance to make an impression.