The final pre-season match for Xabi Alonso’s first season in charge of the Blues. We will face Real Sociedad at home in a match where the only television coverage around the world is a channel from the Basque Country, where our opponents are from.
It should be an interesting match since our entire squad is available now. Including captain Reece James, who starts today, and vice-captain (?) Enzo Fernandes.
Chelsea starting lineup (4-2-3-1):
Sanchez; Fofana, Lacroix, Colwell, Balestra; James (c), Caicedo; Grandson, Palmer Rogers. John Pedro
Alternatives from: Benders, Slonina, Acheampong, Chavarria, Justo, Hato, Isogo, Lafia, Barco, Enzo, Estevao, Gittens, Quinda
Real Sociedad starts eleventh:
Remiro. Aramburu, Parrin, Oscarsson, Herrera, TEC, Sergio Gomez, C Soler, Soucek, John Martin, Petya.
Alternatives from: Marrero, Fulgado, Aihen, Zubeldia, Torrentes, Oyarzabal, Marin, Zakharyan, Ruberez, Guti, Marshall, LeBarbere, Ochieng.
Date/Time: Saturday 15 August 2026, 14:00 GMT; 9 a.m. EST; 7:30 PM India time
place: Stamford Bridge, SW6
