Chelsea are in Jakarta, Indonesia, preparing for their pre-season friendly against AC Milan. This match is the penultimate fixture of their tour across Asia and Oceania. The team, under manager Xabi Alonso, is focused on building momentum ahead of the upcoming Premier League season.
The squad recently held a training session at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium. Players such as Levi Colwill, Mykhailo Mudryk, Marco Palestra, Cole Palmer, and Estevao Willian participated in the workout. The training session was observed by local supporters.
Squad Updates and Manager’s Philosophy
Manager Xabi Alonso is considering changes to the starting lineup for the match against AC Milan. Cole Palmer, who was previously sidelined as a precaution after sustaining a knock in a match against Tottenham Hotspur, has returned to first-team training. His return could see him feature in the upcoming friendly.
Levi Colwill also suffered a knock in the Tottenham Hotspur game and was left out of the squad for the Juventus match as a precaution. If Colwill has recovered, he is expected to replace Tosin Adarabioyo and partner Wesley Fofana at centre-half. Should Colwill not be available, Josh Acheampong could be given an opportunity in the back-four.
Robert Sanchez, who was recovering from a minor injury, returned to action in the Juventus match, replacing Teddy Sharman-Lowe. Goalkeeper Mike Penders has also reported for duty after an extended holiday following the World Cup and could make his first appearance under Alonso against AC Milan.
Alonso has outlined his plan to build a strong team spirit and culture within the squad. He emphasised that a positive team environment, built daily, is crucial for competition. He stated that togetherness, trust, and strong bonds among players are vital for developing a winning mentality and a team capable of competing effectively.
The manager also highlighted the importance of the mental aspect of the game, considering it as significant as the footballing side. He expressed satisfaction with the team’s attitude and personality during the pre-season preparations. Alonso noted the global support for Chelsea, with blue shirts visible wherever the team has travelled, and appreciated the opportunity to connect with supporters in Jakarta.
Potential Lineup Changes
Mahdi Nicoll-Jazuli, a 16-year-old midfielder, made a positive impression during the defeat to Juventus and could make consecutive starts. He played alongside Moises Caicedo in that match. Estevao Willian is likely to replace Geovany Quenda in the upcoming game. Both Willian and Quenda are considered talented players who could be key for Alonso this season, suggesting careful management of their playing time.
Upfront, Alonso could pair Cole Palmer with Joao Pedro. Joao Pedro performed well in a second-striker support role against Juventus in Palmer’s absence. Alonso is keen for the duo to combine and build chemistry within the team’s new system. The predicted Chelsea starting lineup to face AC Milan includes Mike Penders; Jorrel Hato, Wesley Fofana, Levi Colwill, Marco Palestra; Moises Caicedo, Mahdi Nicoll-Jazuli; Estevao Willian, Cole Palmer, Jamie Gittens; and Joao Pedro.
The match against AC Milan is scheduled for a 1pm kick-off UK time.
Source: chelseafc.com
