Chelsea will go back to Stamford Bridge for their final pre-season friendly against Real Sociedad following a successful campaign under Xabi Alonso. This fixture could be an indication of what the first-team XI will look come the start of the season against Fulham.
Chelsea vs Real Sociedad match info
- Date: Saturday 15 August 2026.
- Kick off times (s): 2pm (UK)
- Competition: Pre-season friendly.
- Venue: Stamford Bridge, London
- How to watch: CFC+.
How do I watch Chelsea vs Real Sociedad?
You can watch the match on Chelsea's streaming platform CFC+.
Chelsea vs Real Sociedad match preview
Xabi Alonso will come up against some familiar faces when Chelsea face his former club Real Sociedad, with the Blues facing a stern test against a side featuring World Cup winner Mikel Oyarzabal.
Alonso came through the ranks at the Basque club as a player before returning in 2019 to take his first steps into management with their B team. He remains something of a cult hero in the blue half of the Basque Country, so his return is likely to receive a warm reception from both the home and travelling supporters.
The match should provide another valuable test for Chelsea against a Sociedad side looking to build on their Copa del Rey success and improve on last season’s 10th-place finish.
However, fans will be eager to see Chelsea’s new-look attacking trio of Morgan Rogers, Cole Palmer and Estêvão come to life, with the prospect of goals and exciting attacking football in front of the Shed End.
Chelsea team news
The Blues are now close to a full complement ahead of the weekend, with their remaining post-World Cup absentees returning to Cobham over the past few days. That could pave the way for Morgan Rogers, Reece James, Malo Gusto and Valentín Barco to feature, while Enzo Fernández could also be involved if Manchester City have not completed a deal for his services.
New signing Pep Chavarría could also be in line for his first appearance after completing his move from Rayo Vallecano this week, giving Chelsea fans an early glimpse of their latest addition.
Indication of the centre back pairing, likely Maxine Lacroix and Levi Colwill, and the central midfield pairing will give an indication of who will be in the starting XI.
Predicted Line up: Penders; Palestra, Lacroix, Colwill, Hato; Lavia, Caicedo; Estevao, Palmer, Rogers; Joao Pedro
Prediction: 3-1 Chelsea
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