Chelsea secure 2-0 win over Leverkusen

Chelsea win their first pre-season match 2-0 with Estevao Willian scoring on his debut and Joao Pedro adding a late finish.

Chelsea beat Bayer Leverkusen as Estevao Willian shines on debut

Chelsea started their pre-season with purpose, defeating Bayer Leverkusen 2-0. Estevao Willian, 18, opened the scoring in the 18th minute after signing from Palmeiras for £29m, showing quick feet and calm finishing on the right. Liam Delap led the front line in the absence of Nicolas Jackson, but his night was muted by limited involvement and only 13 touches.

Joao Pedro came on in the second half and sealed the win with a composed finish in stoppage time. Chelsea also handed minutes to new signings Jorell Hato and Jamie Gittens, and endured a scare when Levi Colwill picked up an injury, with Tosin making a key block to avert a Leverkusen equaliser. Chelsea looked sharper than their visitors, who started pre-season later and had already played four matches this summer, underscoring a fresh, high-tempo approach under Enzo Maresca.

Estevao Willian's first appearance signals Chelsea's readiness to rely on youth and rapid integration. His debut, paired with Cole Palmer's links and the team's high-pressure style, suggests the manager wants flexible attacking options and depth for a busy schedule ahead. The emphasis on rotation, as Maresca noted, indicates a path to preserve energy across the squad while building form before the Premier League opener. The night also exposed some early questions: Delap needs more goal threat and consistency, and the injury to Colwill tests defensive depth. Chelsea appear intent on balancing immediate results with long-term development, a stance that will be tested as more players return from international duties and the transfer window evolves.

Highlights

Chelsea head into the next pre-season fixtures with a broadened attacking toolkit and a clearer plan for rotation