Chelsea vs Inter Milan in Pre-Season Finale at Stamford Bridge

Since 2009, Chelsea and Inter Milan have met six times, with their encounters split between friendly matches and the Champions League. Inter emerged victorious in both of their Champions League encounters, winning 2-1 and 1-0. The friendly matches have been more balanced, with Chelsea winning three and Inter winning one, with an even record of 3-3.

Inter Milan enters this match after a successful 2023/24 season, having won the Serie A title under the guidance of Simone Inzaghi. They finished the campaign 19 points ahead of second-placed AC Milan, showcasing their dominance. Inter has made strategic signings in the summer transfer window, including Piotr Zieliński and Mehdi Taremi, which bolsters their squad depth.

Chelsea has also had a robust pre-season, with manager Enzo Maresca experimenting with different formations and lineups. The addition of Pedro Neto, who recently passed his medical and will be presented to the supporters on Sunday, adds more depth to their attacking options.

Chelsea predicted lineup

Goalkeeper:

We expect Rober Sanchez to start between the posts, as he will start the season as the number one goalie.

Defence:

With Reece James picking up a new hamstring injury, Malo Gusto is the only backup for the right-back role. The big question mark is the left-back position as Ben Chilwell is out of favour for Maresca and Marc Cucurella joined the team just a few days ago after winning the Euro.

Enzo Maresca is still experimenting with centre-backs and is yet to establish the ideal pairing, as Mauricio Pochettino struggled too. Maresca addressed concerns with Chelsea's defence after the US tour. We expect Wesley Fofana and Tosin Adarabioyo to start the game, with Levi Colwill to be an alternative at the left-back or could start over Tosin.

Midfield:

Romeo Lavia started every pre-season game so far and could be the key player under Maresca if he stays fit. Moises Caicedo is expected to start alongside Lavia with Enzo Fernandez playing a more advanced role.

Attack:

Pedro Neto won't be available for the game as he passed his medical yesterday. Noni Madueke should start at the right wing, the in-form English international scored in the last 3 games (vs Club America, Man City and Real Madrid) and provided one assist.

Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall is likely to start at the left wing, with Raheem Sterling as alternative or Mikhaylo Mudryk.

Christopher Nkunku, who also netted 3 goals in the pre-season is expected to start as number nine.
Cole Palmer should be ready on the bench and enter the game for the second half.

The big question mark is under Nicolas Jackson, who is still recovering from injury. The same applies for Axel Disasi.

Chelsea is set to play their final pre-season match against Inter Milan at Stamford Bridge, kicking off at 3 PM UK time. This match serves as a crucial preparation for both teams ahead of their respective league campaigns.