Chelsea will be taking on MLS side LAFC in their first game of the new Club World Cup. Enzo Maresca’s side will be back in action just weeks after a historic Conference League final victory

Chelsea begin our Club World Cup adventure with a matchup against MLS contenders Los Angeles FC, who are the replacement team for Club León. On paper, we are the favorites for this game — and for all our group games — but LAFC are in decent form and in the middle of their season and we’re practically on holidays after a long-long season.

The 38-year-old goalkeeper says the US-based club will struggle to compete with the Premier League clubs, or even others in the group.

On paper, Group D is a battle between two strong outfits fighting for first place, with the other two sides hoping that they are the tournament’s dark horse. Chelsea, Flamengo, Esperance de Tunis and LAFC make up this group,

A guide to the Club World Cup as Man City, Chelsea and Messi prepare for action - FIFA’s newly-expanded competition kicks off this weekend.

Black & Gold bring in the Dutch forward, playing in Liga MX since February 2024, on loan with the right to buy to fortify their FIFA Club World Cup roster.