Oh dear, Enzo Maresca already has a memeable photo as Chelsea boss.

It took precisely one pre-season game for Maresca to end up with his head in his hands.

He probably couldn't believe how poor his side's defending was in the second half.

At least he has time to work on it...

Oh wait, I forgot the club he manages for a second, maybe he should do it sooner rather than later.

As a Chelsea fan, you have to take the positives...

Wesley Fofan finally returned to action today after missing the whole of last season through a knee injury.

You could tell he was rusty, but it was great to see him back out there.

He will only improve by getting minutes.

They may have seen their side struggle, but the Stateside Chelsea fans still had a blast.

It's not often that they get to see their beloved blues in action - they really made the most of it.

For a stadium that was half empty, they made one hell of a noise when Lesley Ugochukwu netted a late equaliser.

They will remember that forever.

That was some performance from Wrexham, wasn't it?

The League One side never gave up despite being under the cosh for large parts of the game.

But they showed what they were really about in that second half, they are going to cause problems in League One this year.

Last year they were thumped by Chelsea, this year they were eight minutes from victory.

That's what you call progress.

Plenty to ponder for Enzo Maresca.

That match was a tale of two halves. In the first, his side looked disciplined, controlled, and threatening.

In the second they were all over the place.

But I guess that is what pre-season is for. he will still be working out what players are best for his system.

The result is far from ideal, though.

I was right... no time for a winner.

Chelsea limp to a draw against League One Wrexham in their first match under Enzo Maresca.

Everything seemed on track for the Blues until the Welsh outfit flipped the script In the 71st minute.

The Premier League side were all over the place and seemed destined for embarrassment in California.

But Lesley Ugochukwu saved the day with just eight minutes to go.

Still, not the best of starts for the new Italian boss.

There will be just two added minutes...

Is that enough time for a winner? If so, who will it come from?

I'm not sure either...

Chelsea are finally waking up, but it's too little too late.

Raheem Sterling whips in a lovely ball and you just expect Armando Broja to head home.

But the ball falls slightly behind the Albanian striker and Wrexham manage to clear.

That would have been a screamer!

Josh Acheampong sees his name in lights as the ball drops to him just outside the area.

He decides to have a crack but leans back ever so slightly, and the ball whistles just over the bar.

So, so close to a winner.

Raheem Sterling takes a good thumping while driving into the Wrexham box and wins a corner.

He seems the only player in a blue shirt wanting to try and win this game at the moment.

They are running out of time.

Lesley Ugochukwu has surely saved Chelsea from embarrassment!

Just as the Blues seemed down and out, Ugochukwu curls a lovely low drive into the bottom corner.

They have no time to celebrate, though, they want to get on with the game again.

Even a draw would not be a great result...

Wrexham should be home and hosed, but Lucas Bergstrom comes up trumps for Chelsea.

Jack Marriott manages to reach a low cross and turn the ball toward goal.

It looks set to hit the back of the net, but Bergstrom gets down low brilliantly to deny him.

Chelsea are all over the place at the back!

And now he is off.

No, he has not been sent off, but Phil Parkinson decides he needs to be hooked to avoid that happening.

Harry Ashfield comes on in his place.

George Dobson, you are a lucky boy...

The Wrexham midfielder is already on a booking and takes out Andrey Santos with a nasty challenge.

If it wasn't a friendly, he may be off...

What a finish that is from Jack Marriott!

Out of nowhere, Wrexham take the lead against Premier League Chelsea in California.

The Blues make a real mess of it at the back, they get caught out, and Marriott runs through and smashes the ball across Lucas Bergstrom.

We have a shock on the cards...

This second-half Chelsea side aren't quite showing the same fluidity that the team before the break were.

they are really missing Romeo Lavia in the middle of the park.

I will say it again, the Belgian really did sparkle upon his return to first-team action.

Right, I'm going to be honest, I have just missed a fair few Wrexham substitutions.

But no bother, I can report them now.

Andy Cannon, Ryan Barnett, Jack Marriott, Sam Dalby, George Evans, and Jordan Davies are all on.

Now we are back up to speed!

Chelsea are really on the back foot here.

James McClean and Seb Revan are really causing problems on the left-hand side.

The Welsh side look the more likely to score a second.

Wrexham are level!

Now that was easy. Luke Bolton taps into an empty net at the far post from Seb Revan's low cross.

Where were all the Chelsea defenders? Bolton is in so much space.

Ollie Palmer could have even score before it got to Bolton, they were queuing up.

Ooooft, that's a delightful ball from Andrey Santos.

The Brazilian curls in a lovely ball in search of Raheem Sterling, but the winger can't quite reach the ball before Arthur Okonkwo.

It deserved a finish.

No fights early in the second half like there were in the first.

In fact, it's been a fairly tame opening few minutes after the break, not much is happening.

Come on lads, do something!

Here is the second half 11 for Chelsea.

Raheem Sterling, Malo Gusto, and Armando Broja all get the nod to take to the pitch.

Carney Chukwuemeka is the only player who started the game to stay on.

Meanwhile, Will Boyle is on for Wrexham.

Wesley Fofana is back on a football pitch!

The centre-back missed the whole of last season through injury, but he has now recovered to get some minutes in this one.

His first touch is a decent one, but I bet he is feeling rusty.

Enzo Maresca is making some changes. By some, I mean a load.

The Italian has decided to switch up nearly the whole team, making 10 substitutions.

When I get the new line-up I will bring it to you, but for now, I can tell you that Ben Chilwell is on to captain the side.

Anyway, we are back underway in California.

If I did not know this was a friendly, I would not have guessed it was one.

Within three minutes there was a major scrap, with both James McClean and Levi Colwill gunning for each other.

Since then there have been some hefty challenges, and even yellow cards.

Football is always competitive...

Kieran Gill, Mail Sport, at the Levi's Stadium:

Romeo Lavia managed 32 minutes in all of 2023-24, a horrendous season in which injuries held him back. But for me, he was Chelsea’s most assured player of that first half. Have to hope he has a better 2024-25 because there’s a good midfielder there.

Romeo Lavia has been very impressive so far.

The deep-lying midfield role can sometimes go unnoticed, but I think Lavia has dictated play effortlessly.

Everything good Chelsea seem to do goes through the Belgian in the middle of the park.

He certainly looks like a man who has recovered from injury.

There goes the half-time whistle!

It's not been a classic by any means, but it's Chelsea who lead in California.

Christopher Nkunku is the player to have netted the first goal under Enzo Maresca, but they really should have more.

However, I feel the Italian will be happy with what he has seen overall.

Not so sure about Phil Parkinson, though.

Chelsea have Wrexham right where they want them, but I feel like they are letting them off the hook.

Since going ahead they have just stroked the ball about without really going for the jugular.

Noni Madueke's end product is letting him down.

He eases past Seb Revan on the left and you just expect him to float in a lovely cross.

Instead, he shanks the ball out for a goal kick...

Kieran Gill, Mail Sport, at the Levi's Stadium:

Chelsea's first goal under Enzo Maresca goes to Christopher Nkunku, applying the finishing touch after a corner taken by Reece James. They've looked dangerous from set-pieces, with the help of their new specialist coach Bernardo Cueva.

It's all Chelsea now.

I'm struggling to remember the last time Wrexham touched the ball other than kick-off.

This could get messy.

Christopher Nkunku scores the first goal of the Enzo Maresca era!

Just like he did last year, Nkunku fins the back of the net against Wrexham, firing beyond a hapless Arthur Okonkwu.

It's not the neatest of goals as the Wrexham fail to clear the ball in the area and are then punished.

It falls at the feet of Nkunku who just smashes it home.

Robert Sanchez finally has something to do.

Wrexham have struggled to get up the pitch so far, but they manage to slide the ball into James McClean who races through.

He decides to go alone and tries to squeeze the ball inside the near post, but Sanchez beats it away.

It shows the danger Wrexham possess on the counter.

This referee certainly likes his cards.

Noni Madueke is the first Chelsea man in the book, but in all honesty, I have no clue why.

Neither does he, he looks very confused.

A swing and a miss from Benoit Badiashile.

Chelsea really should be ahead, I can't believe that they are not. The ball falls to Badiashile from a corner six yards out, but he misses the ball completely.

I must admit, I did have a little chuckle, it was a bad miss. He really had to put his foot through that.

Noni Madueke, you have to do better there!

The winger is through on the left and has a load of options in the middle, surely he is going to pass.

Nope. he tries to go alone, cuts inside, and is dispossessed by the recently booked George Dobson.

A real waste.

This really isn't a friendly match...

Wrexham are intent on leaving a bit on the Chelsea players and George Dobson has just flown into a challenge on Christopher Nkunku.

Wrexham's summer signing gets his timing all wrong, he clatters Nkunku and gets a yellow card for it.

He ain't happy about it, that's for sure.

Oh, Marc Guiu comes within inches of giving Chelsea the lead!

Christopher Nkunku flicks on a corner at the near post and Guiu is at full stretch to try and tap the ball home in mid-air.

But despite giving it a good go, he can't make it.

I'm impressed with the effort, though, there is no way I could stretch that far.

This match is the definition of a pre-season friendly. Not much has really happened.

Lots of passing, but no end product.

The most interesting thing to happen so far is the fight between Levi Colwill and James McClean after three minutes.

Kieran Gill, Mail Sport, at the Levi's Stadium:

It took less than three minutes into Chelsea's first friendly to see a huge fight between Levi Colwill and James McClean. The unfriendly friendly.

Levi Colwill has just clattered into James McClean, but he does win the ball in the process.

It's clear the pair don't really like each other, so be prepared to hear a lot more about them clashing.

The pattern of this game is already glaringly obvious.

Chelsea are enjoying the lion's share of possession, and will all night. Wrexham don't seem to mind.

The Welsh outfit will try to counter the Premier League side whenever they can.

So far, it's been all the Blues.

Chelsea fans think they have scored, but they are fooled by the side-netting...

Reece James tries to catch out Arthur Okonkwo with a cheeky free-kick, and it very nearly comes off.

He aims for the near post and it clips the woodwork before ruffling the side-netting.

The Blues fans cheer but their joy is short-lived.

I must admit, it duped me too.

It's taken just three minutes for James McClean to wind up Levi Colwill and my word do they get into it.

McClena goes in late on Colwill and the Chelsea man is not happy. they both then get a strong grip of each other and a few choice words are said.

Very feisty... Thought this was a friendly.

The Enzo Maresca era is officially underway!

Wrexham get the ball rolling in Santa Clara to a small roar from the fans.

what have the two teams got for us then? Hopefully goals.

The Levi's Stadium is startlingly empty...

The two teams arise from the tunnel to a smattering of applause, the ground has huge pockets of gaps in the stands.

It's a shame really, I expected a bigger turnout.

What isn't disappointing is the selection of music over the tannoy and the players shake hands.

It's got me pumped up and I'm not even playing!

Kieran Gill, Mail Sport, at the Levi's Stadium:

It's $20 – I repeat, $20 – for a can of Stella Artois at the Levi's Stadium. Now I get why all the stewards were telling us to stay hydrated as we walked in! KO nearing. We've all just stood for the American anthem.

From the match itself, I'm expecting we'll see Reece James inverting into midfield alongside Romeo Lavia. Carney Chukwuemeka and Christopher Nkunku pushing further forward. Noni Madueke hugging the right wing, Tyrique George the left.

This is your five-minute warning.

If you are following along, go get yourself a cuppa quickly before coming back. I've just got one, and I'm so glad I have.

It's going to be one hell of a two hours in Santa Clara, and the ball will be rolling very, very soon.

I bet this man is excited, surely?

Tosin Adarabioyo will take to the turf in a Chelsea shirt for the very first time in just over 10 minutes.

He will be feeling a mix of nerves, excitement, and determination to play well.

You always want to make a good impression on your debut for a new club.

The colour blue is taking over the Levi's Stadium.

Beers are in hand, flags are in the air, and Chelsea supporters are ready to see their team in action.

You can just tell that they are excited for this one, I know I am.

Not long to go now...

It really is bright...

The sun is glaring so much that you can only just make out the players in the video.

For those of you who can't, Wrexham have taken to the pitch for their final preparations before the big match.

They won't need to get warm, though, the sun is doing that for them.

Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall is going to have to wait for his first minutes in the blue of Chelsea.

The summer signing is carrying a little knock and is still working his way back to full fitness.

I bet he is itching to get out there, though.

Out of everyone, he knows Enzo Maresca's system the best - he played under him at Leicester!

Now that is an intimidating stare!

New Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca certainly has his game face on for his first match in charge.

I know the nerves may be jangling, but you can at least crack a smile surely, Enzo?

Maybe we will see one if they win.

There is a buzz in the air in Santa Clara.

The fans are flocking in and around the Levi's Stadium as they prepare to watch Chelsea take on Wrexham.

It's not often that fans in the States will get to watch these teams play, so they will be drinking it all in.

This is exactly what pre-season is about!

What I would do to be in Santa Clara right now.

As Kieran said, it is boiling in the Levi's Stadium now. I bet you are getting nice and tanned, right Kieran?

The players will certainly have to put some sun cream on in that heat, we are not used to it over in the UK.

A glorious day for it.

Kieran Gill, Mail Sport, at the Levi's Stadium:

Bizarrely, I've just been told that kick-off is now 7.08pm. Why, I'm not sure, but hey ho. Expecting there to be around 20,000 fans here in this huge stadium. It's a hot'un out there, around 33 degrees.

Reece James, Chelsea captain, speaking on Tuesday:

I would like to think I'm in a good place now. I had a long off-season and I've got a long pre-season because I'm serving a four-game ban, but I'm in a good place.

There are a lot of adjustments to make in the new system. Whenever a new manager comes in, there is a lot to take on board but we are excited and I can't wait to get started.

It is a question that is constantly asked of Reece James.

The Chelsea captain's career has been injury-ravaged, to say the least. Last year was another where he struggled to stay fit.

This pre-season will be huge for him to get his body ready for the season.

James will be desperate for his body to not let him down like it has in the past.

Enzo Maresca knows that if James stays fit, his side will be better for it. But it's a big ask.

Today's minutes will be valuable.

Romeo Lavia must feel on top of the world right now.

The Belgian midfield endured a nightmare first season at Chelsea, only managing one appearance due to injury problems.

Now he finally has the chance to show the fans what he is all about.

Still a young lad, this could be a massive season for him, and it starts today against Wrexham. Enzo Maresca has put his trust in him.

I bet Lavia can't wait to get out there.

Kieran Gill, Mail Sport, at the Levi's Stadium:

Rolling Stones played a gig here a week ago hence why pitch may look patchy in places, but Chelsea's players have been out to inspect it and seemed happy enough with it.

Enzo Maresca's first team looks a strong one - no Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall as he's carrying a niggle and is doing extra fitness work to get up to speed.

The new look Wrexham is on display for all to see.

Phil Parkinson has named four new signings in their starting 11 to face Chelsea in California.

Lewis Brunt, Seb Revan, George Dobson, and Arthur Okonwo - who spent last season on loan at the club - all start.

It's a massive day for all of them.

The first Chelsea line-up of the Enzo Maresca era is here!

Just under a year after arriving in west London, Romeo Lavia finally makes his first start for the Blues.

New signing Tosin Adarabioyo starts in a back three with Benoit Badiashile and Levi Colwill. Reece James captains the side.

Thoughts, Chelsea fans?

Chelsea fans, what are your thoughts on the new kit?

Personally, I'm a fan. It looks like the sun reflecting into a swimming pool on holiday.

But there will be some people out there who love it. It's certainly different.

Whatever you think, the Blues will be wearing it today.

Which players will start in it in just over an hour, though? We will find out very soon.

Does anybody else feel like they are having de ja vu?

Just over a year ago, these two teams hashed it out in the US just like they are about to today.

But who came out on top?

Chelsea did. Very, very comfortably. It's certainly not a day Wrexham fans will want to remember.

The Blues shipped five past the Welsh side without reply, with the likes of Conor Gallagher, Christopher Nkunku, and Ben Chilwell, getting on the scoresheet.

Will today end in a similar scoreline?

Just look at that sun, wow...

Where I am in London, it's currently pitch black and in the middle of the night. It's fair to say, I am jealous.

Many of these Wrexham players won't have played in grounds quite like the Levi's Stadium.

It's going to be one hell of an experience for them.

Enzo Maresca, Chelsea boss, speaking on Tuesday:

It is quite easy in terms of the player did a statement, apologised and the club did the same. At the end, they are all human beings, I don't think there are any bad intentions from any one of them.

When Enzo is back, I don't think we will have any problems, the player already clarified the situation and the club did the same. There is nothing to add, he is not a bad person or human being. It can happen.

It has been a rather tumultuous couple of weeks for Chelsea.

The club have been rattled by a racism crisis which has taken over all of the build-up to this match.

The scandal involves Blues midfielder Enzo Fernandez, who is yet to join up with the team in the US.

Following Argentina's Copa America triumph over Colombia, Fernandez sang and filmed a chant on the team bus.

The song in question was offensive toward black players in the French national side.

The situation has rocked the dressing room.

Wesley Fofana, Malo Gusto, and Axel Disasi have all since unfollowed Fernandez, with Fofana calling it 'uninhibited racism'.

The Argentine may join up with the side later in their US tour, and it will be interesting to see how the dressing room reacts to his presence.

This is the start of a very busy summer for Chelsea!

Pre-season is always a hectic time for Premier League clubs, but this feels like it's another level.

The Blues will cram in five matches in just 12 days while in the States... that is a lot of games. Their legs are going to be jelly by the end of it.

Let's have a look at the five fixtures they have lined up:

• Chelsea vs Wrexham, July 24
• Chelsea vs Celtic, July 27
• Chelsea vs Club America, July 31
• Chelsea vs Man City, August 3
• Chelsea vs Real Madrid, August 6

There are some very tasty games in there...

I think we best look at what this evening has in store for us.

Frequently asked questions are usually - where are they playing? What time is kick-off? What can we expect?

Well, I have the answers for you:

• Levi's Stadium, Santa Clara, California, USA
• 03:00 BST, 19:00 local time
• A belting match between two exciting teams!

What a way to start pre-season, eh?

In the California sunshine, two big sides for different reasons, and plenty of new faces to analyse.

I'm assuming the majority of readers are here to see how Chelsea will fare in their first match under Enzo Maresca.

They may only be facing a League One side, but in your first match of pre-season... anything could happen.

It's all about getting minutes in the tank really, isn't it?

But sometimes these kinds of games are crackers. With players not up to speed, tactics go out the window and goals fly in.

That's what I am wishing for, but I'm sure the Blues among you will be hoping to see a strong performance from your side.

Either way, it's going to be an enjoyable watch.

Excited, Chelsea fans?

The Enzo Maresca era at the Blues starts today, and what better place to do it than stateside.

His side take on the Welsh outfit Wrexham in California, a second home for their Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.

Both clubs have a big following in the US, so expect the Levi's Stadium to be packed.

Doesn't it feel good to have these teams back in action?

It feels like a lifetime since the club season ended and I have been itching for it to return.

This will certainly do for me, and I know many of you will be interested in seeing how these teams get on.

Right then, let's get this show on the road.