Hereโs the latest on Chelsea head coach Enzo Marescaโs team news ahead of their big clash with PSG in the Club World Cup final:
๐ง Tactical Chess vs PSG
Maresca likened the showdown to a “game of chess,” lauding PSG and their coachโฏLuis Enrique as among the best in world footballโyet he expressed confidence that Chelsea can rise to the challenge.
๐ข Fitness & Lineup Updates
Moises Caicedo
- Sidelined in the semi-final with an ankle issue but returned to training in New York on Thursday. Maresca indicated he’s expected to feature in the final.
Joao Pedro
- The ยฃ60โฏmillion summer signing impressed in the semis with a braceโMaresca praised his ability in tight spaces and said Pedro is โvery good in small spacesโ; a starting role will be decided ahead of kickoff.
โณ Squad Depth & Rotation
Maresca stressed that Chelsea worked their way through a 32-team tournament and are prepared for this moment. With squad depth tightened due to injuries to Romeo Lavia and others, tactical flexibility will be key.
๐ The Stakes
This is the first-ever final of the expanded FIFA Club World Cupโa milestone event at New Jerseyโs MetLife Stadium on Sunday, July 13, 2025. PSG reached the final after a dominant 4โ0 win over Real Madrid, while Chelsea secured their spot with a 2โ0 semi-final victory over Fluminense.
๐ Whatโs Next?
- Final squad announcement expected early Sunday.
- Watch for tactical alignments between Caicedo and Pedro in midfield, and how Maresca adjusts to a side brimming with world-class talent (PSGโs midfield includes Neves, Vitinha, Ruiz).
- Expect a tight, strategic confrontationโboth coaches have repeatedly called it a mental chess match.
๐งฉ Final Take
Enzo Maresca has positioned Chelsea to compete not just physically, but mentallyโemphasizing tactical discipline, squad chemistry, and timely returns from key players. While PSG starts as favorites on paper, Maresca insists Chelsea are as ready as any to seize this historic opportunity.
Would you like moreโlike expected lineups, tactical breakdowns, or player matchups? Just say the word.
