Predicted Chelsea starting XI for Wrexham friendly: Gusto starts

BATUMI, GEORGIA - JULY 8: Noni Madueke and Levi Colwill of England celebrate with trophy during the UEFA Under-21 Euro 2023 final match between England and Spain on July 8, 2023 on Batumi Arena in Batumi, Georgia. (Photo by Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images)
BATUMI, GEORGIA - JULY 8: Noni Madueke and Levi Colwill of England celebrate with trophy during the UEFA Under-21 Euro 2023 final match between England and Spain on July 8, 2023 on Batumi Arena in Batumi, Georgia. (Photo by Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images)
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Chelsea, ian maatsen
Ian Maatsen of Chelsea (Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images)

Right back: Malo Gusto (France)

After the departure of club legend Cesar Azpilicueta and Reece James’ recurring injury concerns, the former Olympique Lyon right back will be looking forward to be greater involvement than first expected. The fanbase however is skeptical of his defensive abilities and Gusto will be hoping to put out promising displays and show that we can rely on him.

Centre back: Trevoh Chalobah (England)

A few reports suggest that Pochettino will not need more than four centre backs for the upcoming season which endangers the academy graduate’s future at the club. Nevertheless, the absence of the injured French duo will give Chalobah the opportunity he needs to prove himself.

Centre back: Levi Colwill (England)

The chat between Noni Madueke and Levi Colwill when celebrating the England U21s successful campaign did enrage the Chels’ faithful. However the club and the supporters do understand the value this young man could provide and will definitely give him a chance to rectify his actions and win back the lost trust.

Left back: Ian Maatsen (Netherlands)

Maatsen lived up to the expectations and was one of Burnely’s stand out performers last season, playing a major role in the promotion story which also got him inducted into the EFL Championship team of the season.

Ben Chilwell has struggled with long term injuries and Marc Cucurella’s first season at the club has been noting but a nightmare. This perfectly sets up the Dutch left back will try and cement his place in the squad.