5 Nigerian names have appeared in Chelsea’s 28-man squad for the 2024 USA pre-season tour.
They include Tosin Adarabioyo, who joined the Blues this summer, Carney Chukwuemeka, Lesley Ugochukwu, Chinonso ‘Noni’ Madueke and young winger Tyrique George.
Tosin, who moved from Fulham to Stamford Bridge will have to prove he is better than Wesley Fofana, Axel Disasi and Benoit Badiashile in the Blues’ central defence.
Chukwuemeka and Ugochukwu are both linked with moves away from Stamford Bridge with AC Milan and Everton as possible destinations respectively.
Also, Madueke who has been linked with Newcastle has to prove himself worthy of remaining at West London.
While there are enough senior forwards for Maresca to choose from, Chelsea has a busy schedule in the coming campaign which could pave the way for younger players like George to get experience playing first-team football under their belt.
Thus, the 18-year-old will be hoping to impress in the coming weeks in a bid to be given the chance to play for the first team next season.
Chelsea started their preseason games in the United States with a 2-2 draw against Wrexham on Wednesday.
They will play Celtic, Club America, Manchester City and Real Madrid.
Their first Premier League game is against Manchester City at Stamford Bridge on August 18.
