Enzo Maresca's debut pre-season as Chelsea manager has been significantly impacted by off-field issues surrounding midfielder Enzo Fernandez.
The Argentine player recently faced backlash for participating in an offensive chant about French nationals following Argentina's Copa America victory.
In response to the controversy, Fernandez issued a public apology.
Despite his efforts to make amends, the incident has strained relationships within the team, with some of his Chelsea teammates reportedly unfollowing him on social media.
Consequently, Fernandez will not participate in the upcoming friendly against Wrexham at Levi's Stadium.
This absence extends to several key players, including Cole Palmer, Conor Gallagher, Moises Caicedo, Euro 2024 champion Marc Cucurella, and USA Olympian Gabriel Slonina.
However, there is a possibility that Serbia's Djordje Petrovic and Ukraine's Mykhaylo Mudryk, both of whom exited the Euros early, may feature in the game.
Maresca must also carefully manage the fitness of Robert Sanchez and Nicolas Jackson, who are recovering from summer injuries.
Their participation remains uncertain, potentially paving the way for Kepa Arrizabalaga to start in goal following his return from a loan spell at Real Madrid.
Defensively, Tosin Adarabioyo might debut alongside Levi Colwill, Reece James, and Axel Disasi.
In midfield, new signings Renato Veiga and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall are expected to make their first appearances, supporting Christopher Nkunku in the playmaker role.
The forward line could see former Barcelona player Marc Guiu making his debut, with Noni Madueke and Raheem Sterling, the latter keen to prove himself after missing out on Euro 2024, completing the attacking trio.
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