Chelsea vs Juventus - Friendlies Clubs

All eyes turn to the home ground on August 5, 2026 as Chelsea welcome Juventus in a Friendlies Clubs encounter that promises tension, intrigue and no shortage of subplot. Anderson was pointing out that City had held the whip hand in this fixture "for as long as I've known", which isn't exactly inaccurate but will also fan the flames ahead of Sunday's Old Trafford showdown.

There is plenty riding on this Friendlies Clubs encounter for Chelsea and Juventus alike, and neither will want to leave the home ground empty-handed. Chelsea's recent form is difficult to quantify, but the occasion itself should bring the best out of them. The visitors will back themselves to cause problems and will not make the trip expecting an easy afternoon. The fact that Oxford ultimately fell five points short of the total needed to stay in the Championship shows that it would have required top-half - almost play-off - form during the second half of the season.

Set-piece efficiency could prove the difference on the night. Both Chelsea and Juventus have invested time in dead-ball situations this season, and a single corner or free-kick may settle it. Few of Bouaddi's age possess such a rare blend of physicality off the ball, and poise and balance in possession.

Neither side is short on individuals capable of tilting the balance, and the duel between the two squads' chief creators could prove particularly pivotal. How each side deals with the other's danger men — and who takes their chances when they come — will be central to the outcome. Do not rule out a move for a centre-forward too.

The fixture has the feel of a coin-flip, and picking a winner with any conviction would require a braver pundit than most. Expect a tight, competitive affair that could easily end all square at 1-1. Whatever the outcome, the Friendlies Clubs fixture promises a meaningful contest with real implications for both clubs. Premier League chief executive Richard Masters says a verdict on the alleged charges against Manchester City "has taken longer than expected".