It would be going too far to claim a pre-season friendly against Udinese is a must-win game for Chelsea. Yet there is little doubt tomorrow's trip to northern Italy is important for Thomas Tuchel and his players given the Premier League season is firmly on the horizon.
The Blues do not appear ready for the start of their league campaign, which comes against Everton at Goodison Park. Not only do several players – such as Cesar Azpilicueta, Marcos Alonso and Hakim Ziyech – want to depart Stamford Bridge for pastures new, but only two signings have been made thus far: Kalidou Koulibaly and Raheem Sterling.
Add in disappointing performances against Charlotte FC and Arsenal and there is a feeling of concern with the Chelsea fanbase – Tuchel's strong reaction after a 4-0 defeat to the latter did little to reassure supporters that everything will be alright come Saturday, August 6.
