Chelsea Defeat Ten-Man AC Milan 4-1 in Pre-Season Finale

Chelsea concluded their pre-season with a commanding 4-1 victory over AC Milan at Stamford Bridge, showcasing their sharpness and efficiency as they remain unbeaten in pre-season. The match exposed Milan's defensive vulnerabilities, highlighted by a costly own goal and a red card to young defender Andrei Coubis early in the game, which left Milan with ten men and struggled to contain Chelsea's attacking threat. Chelsea's goals came from Joao Pedro, who scored early, and a brace from summer signing Liam Delap, while Milan managed a consolation goal from Youssouf Fofana. Milan's debutant veteran Luka Modric, who came on after halftime, was unable to turn the tide, with Milan's lone striker Rafael Leão isolated throughout the match. Chelsea paraded their recent Club World Cup and UEFA Conference League trophies before the game, signaling their strong form ahead of the Premier League season opener against Crystal Palace. Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri acknowledged the need for continued work to address the defensive issues brought sharply into focus by this heavy defeat.