Chelsea vs AC Milan: Predicted Lineups, Key Players to Watch, and Where to Stream Live

Chelsea and AC Milan clash in a high-profile preseason friendly, offering fans a thrilling preview of their 2025-26 campaigns. Both teams have shown mixed form in recent fixtures, with Chelsea defeating Leverkusen 2-0 while Milan drew 1-1 against Leeds United.

Key players to watch include emerging stars and seasoned veterans from both sides, as coaches test tactics ahead of the new season. The match promises tactical intrigue, with Chelsea likely fielding a strong lineup after their dominant 3-0 win over PSG last month.

For global viewers, the game will be available across multiple platforms, ensuring fans won’t miss this exciting encounter. Expect an intense battle as these European giants face off in their final preseason preparations.

Chelsea vs AC Milan: Who Will Start in the Final Preseason Clash?

Chelsea’s lineup is expected to feature new signings Estêvão and João Pedro prominently after their impressive debuts against Leverkusen. The Brazilian teenager Estêvão scored his first goal for the Blues last week, showing exceptional dribbling skills and link-up play. AC Milan may field a strong XI including Rafael Leão and veteran Olivier Giroud, who faces his former club.

The tactical battle between Chelsea’s Enzo Maresca and Milan’s Paulo Fonseca will be intriguing. Maresca favors a possession-based 4-3-3, while Fonseca often deploys an attacking 4-2-3-1 formation. Both managers will likely use this match to finalize their starting elevens for the upcoming league campaigns.

I’d bet on Chelsea playing their strongest available side – this is their last proper test before the Premier League kicks off.

But will Pulisic get any minutes against his old team? That’s what the American fans want to know!

Predicted Chelsea Starting XI

• GK: Đorđe Petrović
• DEF: Reece James, Tosin Adarabioyo, Levi Colwill, Ben Chilwell
• MID: Enzo Fernández, Moisés Caicedo, Conor Gallagher
• FW: Estêvão, Christopher Nkunku, João Pedro

Will Estêvão Destroy AC Milan’s Defense Like He Did to Leverkusen?

The 18-year-old Brazilian wonderkid announced himself to Chelsea fans with a stunning performance against Bayer Leverkusen last week. His ability to beat defenders one-on-one and create chances could wreak havoc on Milan’s backline, especially if manager Paulo Fonseca fields an experimental defense.

Estêvão completed 6 dribbles and created 3 chances in just 65 minutes against Leverkusen. Milan fullbacks Davide Calabria and Theo Hernández will need to be at their defensive best to contain him. If given space, the teenager’s left foot could decide the game.

This kid has ‘next big thing’ written all over him. His decision-making is already way beyond his years.

I wonder if he’ll get tired though? The Premier League season is much more physically demanding than what he’s used to in Brazil.

Where to Watch Chelsea vs AC Milan Live Stream for Free?

UK viewers can catch the match on Channel 5, while American fans can stream via DAZN. Chelsea’s official app will broadcast globally with some regional restrictions. Several unofficial streaming platforms often emerge for high-profile friendlies, but using official channels guarantees better quality and reliability.

The match kicks off at 19:45 BST (14:45 EDT) at Stamford Bridge. ESPN will provide live updates for those who can’t watch the full broadcast. For post-match analysis, Chelsea TV usually offers extended highlights and interviews within hours of the final whistle.

Global Broadcasting Partners

Can Olivier Giroud Haunt His Former Club in His Last Milan Appearance?

The veteran French striker spent three seasons at Chelsea before joining AC Milan in 2021. Now 38, this preseason match could be his final appearance for the Rossoneri before an expected move to MLS. Giroud always raises his game against former clubs, and Chelsea’s young center-backs will need to be wary of his aerial threat and clever link play.

Giroud scored 39 goals in 119 appearances for Chelsea, including crucial strikes in their 2021 Champions League triumph. His experience could prove vital against a Chelsea defense that still looks vulnerable at set pieces.

Giroud might be getting on in years, but that man always seems to score when it matters most.

True! Remember when he scored that bicycle kick against Atlético in the Champions League? Absolute class!

Will This Friendly Match Predict Chelsea and Milan’s Season Form?

Preseason results can be misleading, but strong performances often translate to good early season form. Chelsea’s comprehensive wins over PSG and Leverkusen suggest they’re adapting well to Maresca’s system. Milan’s mixed results raise questions – they demolished Perth Glory 9-0 but lost narrowly to Arsenal.

The psychological edge from winning this prestigious friendly could be significant. When these teams met in preseason two years ago, Milan’s victory foreshadowed their stronger Serie A campaign while Chelsea struggled. Both clubs will want to make a statement ahead of their respective league openers.

Don’t read too much into friendlies – remember when Manchester United went unbeaten in preseason then had their worst ever Premier League start?

But the way teams press and organize does tell you something. Chelsea’s high line against Leverkusen looked really coordinated already.

Post-Match Analysis Expected from YouTube Pundits

Popular football channels like The Football Terrace and TIFO Football will likely provide extended tactical breakdowns. Fans searching for “Chelsea Milan analysis” will find plenty of content debating individual performances, formation choices, and preseason takeaways. The emergence of young stars like Estêvão guarantees highlight reels and future prospect discussions.

Expect pundits to focus on Chelsea’s midfield balance and whether Milan have adequately replaced departed stars. The goalkeeper performances will also be scrutinized, especially if either team’s new signing between the posts features.