Enzo Maresca is aiming for his first win as Chelsea head coach as Chelsea vs Club America holds on Wednesday in Atlanta. The Blues have so far drawn with Wrexham and lost to Celtic in pre-season matches. Maresca hopes to see progress in their third game of the summer.
Club America, however, has played four league matches already. Their fitness levels are expected to be higher than Chelsea’s. The Blues struggled against Celtic, who were in their final pre-season game. The difference in fitness was noticeable which could make a big impact in Chelsea vs Club America.
Goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen is joining soon, so these could be Sanchez’s last chances to impress. Sanchez performed well against Celtic and hopes to continue that form. It is also an important pre-season for captain James. He has started both matches and aims to improve his fitness after a difficult last season.
Fofana made his first start in over a year against Celtic. Maresca might ask him to play again to regain match fitness. Colwill has played as left-back in the first two games.
However, after Badiashile’s poor showing, Maresca may change things up. If Colwill plays, Chilwell might feature on the left defense. Chilwell has not started yet this summer.
Lavia has had a steady start and impressed with his passing. His style fits well with Maresca’s approach. Ugochukwu has played in a new box-to-box role and shown promise. Chukwuemeka might get a rest after two starts.
Nkunku has scored twice in two games during the American tour. He missed some chances against Celtic but remains a threat. He’ll aim to be more clinical against Club America.
Sterling has only had brief appearances so far but could start. He impressed off the bench against both Wrexham and Celtic.
Chelsea vs Club America Predicted XI for Enzo Maresca: Filip Jorgensen; James, Colwill, Fofana Chilwell; Ugochukwu, Lavia, Chukwuemeka; Sterling, Nkunku, Mudryk