Chelsea vs AC Milan prediction 08.08.2026 | Club Friendly

Chelsea's pre-season has produced mixed results. Their recent Asian tour has been challenging, suffering narrow defeats against Tottenham and Juventus, although performances have gradually improved despite the results. Xabi Alonso has been using the tour to implement his positional style of play while rotating heavily to evaluate new arrivals and academy prospects. 

In terms of availability, Chelsea are still managing several absentees. Roméo Lavia continues his recovery from injury, while Jamie Bynoe-Gittens is also unavailable. Mykhailo Mudryk recently returned to action after serving a lengthy suspension and is gradually rebuilding match fitness, making another appearance likely against Milan rather than a full 90-minute outing.

AC Milan have looked relatively sharp throughout their pre-season preparations and continue to build under their evolving squad following significant summer changes. The Rossoneri have demonstrated defensive organisation while maintaining their traditional threat in transition, with several attacking players already finding rhythm before the Serie A campaign begins. Their latest outing ended in an entertaining 1-1 draw against Inter.

Milan's squad remains relatively healthy entering this fixture. Christian Pulisic is among the players unavailable through injury, but most of the senior squad is expected to feature as the coaching staff continue building fitness levels. Rotation should again be expected, particularly during the second half, with several academy players likely to receive valuable minutes.