Chelsea's Final Friendly: Alonso Faces Boyhood Club

Chelsea concludes its preseason campaign by welcoming Real Sociedad to Stamford Bridge on Saturday, August 15. The match marks the final friendly before the 2026-27 season commences.

Manager Xabi Alonso will face his boyhood club, Real Sociedad, a team he played for and began his coaching career with. Alonso will be keen to ensure his side finishes their preparations on a positive note ahead of their first league fixture against Fulham.

The Blues are looking to build momentum after a summer tour that included extensive travel. While early results raised some concerns, the team finished their excursion with encouraging performances, including a victory over AC Milan.

Real Sociedad arrives at Stamford Bridge having lost their last three preseason matches. Despite a mediocre La Liga campaign last season, they secured the Copa del Rey, marking a significant success for the club. However, their current preseason form suggests Chelsea may have the upper hand.

Several new signings are expected to feature for Chelsea, with Morgan Rogers, Valentin Barco, and Emmanuel Emegha potentially making their debuts. Cole Palmer and Levi Colwill have recovered from minor knocks and are likely to start, potentially alongside new signing Maxence Lacroix.