Enzo Maresca is preparing Chelsea for their US preseason tour, with the team having trained at Cobham for two weeks. On July 25, they will face League One newcomers Wrexham, a match that echoes last year’s fixture, which Chelsea won 5-0.
However, this season brings more uncertainties for Maresca, the team, and the club. The head coach must determine his touring squad amidst ongoing selection dilemmas.
Notably, several Chelsea players might be on the verge of leaving. Marc Cucurella, Conor Gallagher, and Cole Palmer are currently absent due to Euro 2024 commitments, opening opportunities for other players. Ben Chilwell, linked with a transfer, and a group of attackers have the chance to prove themselves in the left-back and forward positions, respectively.
Raheem Sterling is content at Chelsea but faces competition from Palmer and Christopher Nkunku.
Players like Alfie Gilchrist, Deivid Washington, and Marc Guiu have limited first-team experience but aim to secure spots. Gilchrist is likely headed for a loan, with Championship teams interested.
Washington and Guiu are behind Nicolas Jackson in the forward lineup, and Chelsea is seeking a new No. 9, which could lead to their departures.
Andrey Santos, having impressed on loan last season, hopes to secure a place in the team with Gallagher and Moises Caicedo temporarily absent.
Gallagher’s future remains uncertain, with Chelsea open to selling if the right offer comes. Despite the competition, he aims to establish himself in Maresca’s squad.
Armando Broja, returning from the Euros, faces a similar predicament. Chelsea is willing to let him go, but he has a chance to prove his worth in the preseason.
Trevoh Chalobah is another player potentially leaving, given Chelsea’s surplus of defensive options.
Selling him could benefit the club financially, but Chalobah is determined to earn a spot under Maresca, especially with Wesley Fofana returning from injury.
Maresca must trim the squad before the US tour and the English season. For many players, the upcoming weeks are crucial in determining their future at Chelsea.
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