Chelsea, LAFC Open Club World Cup in Atlanta

Chelsea, under coach Enzo Maresca, are set to begin their Club World Cup campaign against Los Angeles FC (LAFC) in Atlanta, with a clear focus on winning the tournament despite player fatigue and the competition coinciding with the offseason. Maresca emphasized the importance of the Club World Cup, viewing it not as preseason but a significant competition, and highlighted the integration of new players like Liam Delap while acknowledging the need for players such as Nicolas Jackson to prove their worth amid competition for starting roles. Chelsea’s goalkeeper situation remains uncertain, with multiple contenders and the recent pursuit of AC Milan's Mike Maignan indicating a search for a reliable number one. Meanwhile, LAFC, founded only ten years ago and backed by owners including Magic Johnson and Will Ferrell, have rapidly risen to international prominence, having won multiple MLS titles and the U.S. Open Cup, and earned their spot in the tournament after a playoff victory. Chelsea’s squad is using the Philadelphia Union’s facilities for training, balancing preparation with downtime in the U.S., and players like Cole Palmer are embracing the experience beyond the pitch. Both teams face challenges and opportunities in this Club World Cup, with Chelsea carrying the pressure as favorites and LAFC eager to upset the established European side on home soil.