Enzo Maresca is set to lead Chelsea into the newly revamped Club World Cup in the United States after a successful debut season, which included a Champions League qualification and a Europa Conference League victory. The Italian coach now sets his sights on even more silverware in a summer competition that promises global attention.
The Blues have named a competitive squad for their first match against LAFC, with new faces and rising stars hoping to stake an early claim.
Liam Delap, recently signed from Ipswich Town for £30 million, is expected to challenge for a starting spot. He could get the nod over Nicolas Jackson, who recently featured for Senegal in their 3-1 win over England.
Andrey Santos, returning from a standout loan spell at Strasbourg, is another player aiming to impress. Youngsters Mamadou Sarr and new signing Dario Essugo are also included in the squad and may be given chances to shine during the tournament.
Meanwhile, first-team regulars like Enzo Fernandez, Marc Cucurella, Noni Madueke, and Levi Colwill all remain with the team, though Maresca may opt to rest some after recent international duties. Colwill and Trevoh Chalobah both played full matches in midweek internationals, and with fixture congestion a concern, squad rotation could play a key role in the weeks ahead.
Wesley Fofana is recovering from injury and remains sidelined. Notably absent from Maresca’s squad are Joao Felix, Raheem Sterling, Djordje Petrovic, and Axel Disasi — all of whom are unlikely to be part of the manager’s long-term plans after returning from their respective loan spells.
Chelsea’s opponents LAFC will field some familiar names. Former Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud leads their line, and ex-Spurs goalkeeper Hugo Lloris is expected to start in goal, adding Premier League flavor to the clash.
Chelsea’s predicted XI for Monday’s match includes Sanchez in goal, with Gusto, Chalobah, Colwill, and Cucurella in defense. Midfield could feature Caicedo, Fernandez, and Neto, while Palmer, Madueke, and Delap may lead the attacking line.
Chelsea vs LAFC kicks off at 8pm on Monday, June 6. UK viewers can catch the action live on Channel 5, while global coverage of all 63 Club World Cup matches will be available for free via DAZN with a registered account.