Chelsea XI vs Bayer Leverkusen: Confirmed team news, predicted lineup and injury latest for friendly | OneFootball

Marquee signings could be on display when Blues take on Bundesliga outfit

Debut loading: Jamie Gittens

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Your matchday briefing on Chelsea, featuring team news and expert analysis from Malik Ouzia

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Chelsea could have three of their summer signings make debuts when they play Bayer Leverkusen on Friday.

Joao Pedro and Liam Delap could also be set for home debuts after impressing at the Club World Cup.

Enzo Maresca had injury headaches over Benoit Badiashile, Romeo Lavia, Dario Essugo and Enzo Fernandez after the Club World Cup final, but after three weeks off since the Blues’ triumph in the United States, all four should be available to feature here if called upon.

Wesley Fofana is a longer-term absentee with a hamstring issue.

The game is Chelsea’s first since that 3-0 win over Paris Saint-Germain in East Rutherford, New Jersey, when the Blues were crowned world champions thanks to Cole Palmer’s brace and Joao Pedro’s third goal in two games.

The Blues take on AC Milan in their final preparation next weekend before their Premier League curtain-raiser against FA Cup winners Crystal Palace on Sunday, August 17.

Chelsea predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Sanchez; James, Chalobah, Colwill, Cucurella; Caicedo, Fernandez; Neto, Palmer, Gittens; Delap

Doubts: Essugo, Badiashile, Lavia

Injured: Fofana

TV: Channel 5, DAZN