Last updated on August 13, 2025
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Chelsea felt like a team that already understands how Enzo Maresca wants to play.
Image credit: Chelsea FC
If Chelsea wanted to send a message before the new season, this was the way to do it.
A 4–1 win over AC Milan, lifting the VisitMalta Weekender Trophy, and putting on a show for the Stamford Bridge crowd.
From the first whistle, the Blues looked sharp, hungry, and ready.
They pressed high, moved the ball quickly, and punished Milan’s mistakes.
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And while it’s only pre-season, performances like this can build the kind of belief a team needs before the real battles begin.
So, what did we actually learn from Chelsea’s final warm-up game? Let’s break it down.
Table of Contents
Takeaway #1 – Ruthless Start Sets the Tone
Chelsea didn’t just start well — they came flying out of the blocks. Before Milan had even settled, it was 2–0.
First came an early slice of luck when Andrei Coubis turned Reece James’ cross into his own net.
Moments later, João Pedro was in the right place to nod home from a perfect Pedro Neto delivery.
That kind of start can knock the wind out of any team.
Milan were chasing shadows before they’d even had a chance to grow into the game.
And for Chelsea fans, it’s a welcome change — last season, we saw far too many slow starts that left the team playing catch-up.
This time, they set the pace and never let go.
Takeaway #2 – Young Talent is Stepping Up
Chelsea’s young guns stole the show. Liam Delap came off the bench to bury a penalty and later added a composed second.
Estêvão won that spot-kick with a fearless run, while Jamie Gittens caused constant problems on the left, winning the free-kick for the opener and running at Milan’s defence with purpose.
It’s proof that Chelsea’s strength isn’t just in big-name stars — the academy and fresh signings are ready to make an impact.
Speaking about Estêvão’s impact on the pitch, Sam Tabuteau at Stamford Bridge said:
“It says a lot that Estevao is already on corner duties for Chelsea. He’s barely kicked a ball for the Blues and is already one of their most trusted players at just 18.”
That depth could be the difference in a long, demanding season.
Takeaway #3 – Maresca’s System Is Clicking
Chelsea didn’t feel like a team finding itself — they felt like a team that already understands how Enzo Maresca wants to play.
From the opening minutes the plan was obvious: quick, clean passing to pin Milan back, then overload the flanks and deliver dangerous crosses into the box.
The early sequence that led to the own goal came from a Reece James delivery that caused chaos in the Milan area, and Joao Pedro’s header two minutes later proved the pattern was working.
That wide focus wasn’t accidental.
Pedro Neto, Jamie Gittens and Reece James all gave Chelsea real width and quality in their delivery — forcing Milan’s defence to stretch and creating space for runners inside.
The result was a string of high-percentage chances and a clear plan that players executed without fuss.
Even when Milan were reduced to ten men early on, Chelsea didn’t switch into sloppy cruise control.
They kept the ball, moved it patiently, and continued to probe rather than just rely on the extra man.
Controlling possession and tempo after the red card showed tactical discipline — Maresca’s team looked organised and calm, not complacent.
Tactical discipline came through across both halves.
Subs were used to maintain shape and energy rather than to disrupt it — the bench entries kept the system intact and fed the front line, which is a healthy sign ahead of a long season where rotation will be key.
In short: the structure is there, the players buy in, and the blueprints Maresca wants are visible on the pitch.
What that means
Tthis wasn’t just a big scoreline against a strong opponent — it was a demonstration that Maresca’s ideas are taking hold.
If Chelsea keep this balance of tactical shape, wide overloads and clinical delivery into the box, they’ll be harder to break down and more dangerous going forward.
Takeaway #5 – Defensive Depth Will Be Tested
Chelsea’s defensive department is already walking a tightrope.
Trevor Chalobah’s latest injury concern comes at a time when Levi Colwill is still sidelined, leaving the Blues with fewer options in central defence.
It’s not just about filling spots on the team sheet — losing key defenders can disrupt rhythm, communication, and confidence at the back.
If Chelsea are serious about chasing silverware this season, keeping their backline fit and firing will be just as important as finding goals at the other end.
Conclusion – Signs of a Serious Contender
One big win doesn’t seal a season, but it does send a message — and Chelsea’s message is loud and clear.
The team looks sharp, confident, and ready to take on anyone.
Catarina Carneiro, a die-hard Chelsea fan summed it all when she said:
Playing at home, Chelsea, with a squad close to full strength, started the match well and quickly took the lead.
After a free kick from Reece James into the box, Andrei Coubis deflected the ball into his own net, putting Chelsea ahead.
It didn’t take long for Chelsea to extend their advantage on the pitch. Dominant in play, in a counterattack move, Pedro Neto crossed, João Pedro flicked it on with his head, and doubled the Blues’ lead.
