Chelsea vs. AC Milan: Pre-Season Friendly Preview
Chelsea will host AC Milan today, August 10, 2025, at Stamford Bridge in a high-profile pre-season friendly, serving as Chelsea’s final warm-up before the new Premier League season kicks off.
Background and Significance
Chelsea’s Successful Summer
Chelsea enters this match following a successful summer, having recently clinched both the Club World Cup and the UEFA Conference League. However, their pre-season has been truncated to only two official friendlies due to a tight schedule. A 2-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen just two days prior has boosted optimism under manager Enzo Maresca.
AC Milan’s Quest for Stability
AC Milan arrives with new manager Massimiliano Allegri, seeking stability after a series of coaching changes. Despite finishing eighth in Serie A last season, Milan has shown promising attacking flair in recent friendlies, netting 13 goals across three matches, including a standout win against Liverpool.
Team News and Lineups
Chelsea’s Injury Concerns
Chelsea faces injury challenges, with Levi Colwill sidelined following ACL surgery and Wesley Fofana also out. The central defense is likely to feature Trevoh Chalobah alongside either Tosin Adarabioyo or new signing Jorrel Hato. Key departures include Armando Broja and Marc Guiu, while Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku are linked with potential moves away. New signings Liam Delap, Joao Pedro, Estêvão, Jamie Gittens, and Hato are expected to play, with Estêvão impressing by scoring on debut against Leverkusen.
AC Milan’s Squad Rotation
Milan's squad rotation is anticipated after a game against Leeds just one day prior. Allegri may field Rafael Leao and Santiago Gimenez up front due to Alvaro Morata’s impending departure and Christian Pulisic’s injury. Summer signings Ardon Jashari and Samuele Ricci may also feature in the lineup.
Form and Context
Chelsea is riding high on the momentum from their major summer trophies, although defensive injuries could pose a challenge. The influx of promising young talent adds further optimism.
AC Milan, under Allegri, has showcased attacking flair despite recent squad changes, aiming to integrate new midfielders and rekindle hopes for an improved Serie A campaign.
Historical Notes
Chelsea and AC Milan have faced each other competitively seven times, with Chelsea winning their last encounter at Stamford Bridge 3-0 in the 2022–23 Champions League.
Broadcast and How to Watch
The match kicks off at 3:00 PM BST at Stamford Bridge. UK viewers can watch on Channel 5, with coverage starting at 2:30 PM BST. Additionally, DAZN will stream the match for free.
Predictions and Expectations
Chelsea are slight favorites, buoyed by their recent success and energetic squad. However, Milan’s striking options may test Chelsea’s reshuffled defense. With key players missing for Chelsea and Milan’s attack in form, pundits predict an entertaining clash with opportunities for emerging players to shine.