As Chelsea prepare to kick off their pre-season campaign against Wrexham at Levi's Stadium, anticipation builds around how both teams will perform.
Here’s a comprehensive look at the match prediction, team news, form, and potential lineups.
Match Preview
Chelsea's Form and Outlook
Chelsea closed their 2023-24 season on a high, securing a spot in the Europa Conference League with a five-game winning streak.
Despite managerial changes, with Mauricio Pochettino making way for Enzo Maresca, the Blues aim to continue their positive momentum.
This match marks the beginning of a series of transatlantic friendlies, with Chelsea also set to face Celtic, Club America, Manchester City, and Real Madrid.
Wrexham's Pre-season Journey
Wrexham, newly promoted to League One, have shown promise in their pre-season fixtures.
After a convincing 5-1 victory over Hanley Town and a commendable 1-1 draw against Bournemouth, Phil Parkinson's men are ready to challenge Chelsea.
Their performance against Bournemouth, especially, highlights their resilience and potential to upset stronger teams.
Team News
Chelsea
Chelsea face some squad limitations due to international commitments and injuries.
Enzo Fernandez is out amid a racism investigation, while Marc Cucurella, Cole Palmer, Conor Gallagher, Moises Caicedo, and Gabriel Slonina are unavailable.
However, new signings like Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Omari Kellyman, and Tosin Adarabioyo are expected to feature, offering a glimpse of Chelsea's future lineup.
Predicted Chelsea Starting XI: Kepa; James, Disasi, Adarabioyo, Colwill; Dewsbury-Hall, Veiga; Madueke, Nkunku, Sterling; Guiu
Wrexham
Wrexham will miss star striker Paul Mullin due to a back operation and left-back Jacob Mendy, who is recovering from an Achilles injury.
Nevertheless, the squad remains largely intact, with Anthony Forde returning from injury in their match against Bournemouth.
Predicted Wrexham Starting XI: Okonkwo; Brunt, O'Connell, Cleworth; Bolton, Jones, Evans, Cannon, McClean; Dalby, Marriott
Prediction
Given Chelsea's superior squad depth and quality, they are favourites to win this friendly.
Wrexham's spirited performances in pre-season suggest they won't go down without a fight, but Chelsea's attacking prowess and new manager bounce should see them through.