5 Young Chelsea players that deserve game-time this preseason

Just over a month has elapsed since Chelsea’s final Premier League game against Newcastle closed the curtains on the Blues’ worst campaign in almost a decade. A lot has happened off the pitch since then, and Chelsea are ready to put the past aside to kick off their preseason for the 2023/24 campaign under new manager Mauricio Pochettino.

CFC will face Wrexham on the 19th of July in their inaugural matchup of their US Preseason tour.  The encounter means more than a simple exhibition match, it is the dawn of a new beginning for Chelsea. Fans will get their first glimpse into the new look Pochettino side, and it will be the opportunity for players to impress under the new gaffer. In particular, the Chelsea youth contingent will be hoping to get the most opportunity to display their talents, as the club hopes that their recent youth-centric rebuild pays off sooner than expected.

Here are 5 young Chelsea players that deserve minutes this preseason.

5. Cesare Casadei

During the U20 World Cup in Argentina a month ago, Cesare Casadei balled out on the biggest stage of his young career so far. The 20-year-old Italian midfielder picked up both Player of the tournament and highest goal scorer with seven goals to lead Italy’s U20 side to the final.

Casadei mainly plays as a No.8 in the midfield behind the No.10 and the striker. He has great composure on the ball, and already possesses the physical frame to play at the senior level. His ability to contribute to output in the final third as a midfielder is exceptional as you’ll often see him making runs in the box and using his aerial prowess to help him finish opportunities like a No.9.

Casadei is still yet to get proper top-flight experience under his belt so this preseason will determine whether he’s ready to contribute to Chelsea now or still needs one more loan to become the final product.