Borussia Dortmund has been in top form during pre-season, winning all five of their matches, despite narrowly missing out on the Bundesliga title to Bayern Munich last season. They have strengthened their midfield with the acquisitions of Felix Nmecha and Marcel Sabitzer, with Sabitzer making his unofficial debut against former club Manchester United. However, Dortmund’s first-choice goalkeeper Gregor Kobel is doubtful due to a muscular injury, and Alexander Meyer may deputize in his absence. With one more friendly against Ajax before their Bundesliga opener against Cologne, manager Edin Terzic might rotate the squad, potentially bringing Marco Reus back to midfield and giving Youssoufa Moukoko a chance to start in the attack.
The connection between the Bundesliga and Chelsea has been well-established in recent times, with players like Christian Pulisic, Kai Havertz, and Timo Werner all moving to Stamford Bridge from German clubs. Although they have now departed, Chelsea made a notable signing from RB Leipzig in the form of Christopher Nkunku this summer. Nkunku was lethal in Germany but struggled against Borussia Dortmund, managing only two goals in seven meetings. Chelsea also has a new captain this season in Reece James, who may lead the team in Wednesday’s match.