Delap debut, Santos decision made, Essugo minutes – Chelsea XI Vs Los Angeles FC has been released

Chelsea is set to kick off their FIFA Club World Cup campaign tonight, taking on Los Angeles FC at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. The Blues are eager to claim the £97 million prize for winning the revamped competition in the United States. For Enzo Maresca, this presents an opportunity to secure a second trophy in his debut season with the club, following their Conference League triumph less than a month ago.
*Squad and Team News*
Chelsea has assembled a 28-man squad for the tournament, featuring new signings Liam Delap, Mamadou Sarr, and Dario Essugo, all of whom are vying for a chance to make their debuts. Additionally, young Belgian goalkeeper Mike Penders has joined the squad after a deal was agreed upon less than 12 months ago.
*Tactical Approach*
The team selection will be pivotal in determining Maresca’s tactical approach to the match. Will he opt for a strong, experienced lineup or give new signings a chance to shine? The predicted XI will likely feature a blend of seasoned players and fresh talent, but only time will tell how Maresca plans to deploy his troops.
*A Statement Opportunity*
This match provides Chelsea with a platform to make a statement in the Club World Cup. Having already secured the Conference League title, the Blues will be looking to assert their dominance in this tournament. Will they prioritize the Club World Cup, or will they adopt a more experimental approach? The answer will become apparent tonight [1].