Chelsea Hosts AC Milan in Preseason Finale

Chelsea is set to wrap up their pre-season by hosting AC Milan at Stamford Bridge, following a successful run that included winning the UEFA Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup. Manager Enzo Maresca is expected to provide more playing time to new signings Joao Pedro, Estevão, and Jorrel Hato, although defensive injuries persist as a concern. AC Milan, under returning coach Massimiliano Allegri, will be playing their second game in two days as they prepare for the Coppa Italia opener and integrate new arrivals Luka Modric and Ardon Jashari. The friendly will be streamed live for free on DAZN in the US and Canada, with no TV broadcast. Separately, Manchester City will play a hastily scheduled friendly against Palermo following their Club World Cup exit, using the match to boost fitness ahead of the Premier League season amid transfer activity and injuries. Palermo, managed by new coach Filippo Inzaghi and owned by the City Football Group, remains unbeaten in preseason.