Here’s the latest on Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca’s team news ahead of their big clash with PSG in the Club World Cup final:
🧠 Tactical Chess vs PSG
Maresca likened the showdown to a “game of chess,” lauding PSG and their coach Luis Enrique as among the best in world football—yet he expressed confidence that Chelsea can rise to the challenge.
🟢 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 £60 million summer signing impressed in the semis with a brace—Maresca praised his ability in tight spaces and said Pedro is “very good in small spaces”; a starting role will be decided ahead of kickoff.
⏳ 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.
🏆 The Stakes
This is the first-ever final of the expanded FIFA Club World Cup—a milestone event at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium on Sunday, July 13, 2025. PSG reached the final after a dominant 4‑0 win over Real Madrid, while Chelsea secured their spot with a 2‑0 semi-final victory over Fluminense.
🔍 What’s 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 (PSG’s midfield includes Neves, Vitinha, Ruiz).
- Expect a tight, strategic confrontation—both coaches have repeatedly called it a mental chess match.
🧩 Final Take
Enzo Maresca has positioned Chelsea to compete not just physically, but mentally—emphasizing 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 more—like expected lineups, tactical breakdowns, or player matchups? Just say the word.
