Club World Cup Final: What’s Changed at Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea Ahead of PSG Showdown
Chelsea face Paris Saint-Germain in Sunday’s final after a season of transformation under Enzo Maresca
The stage is set for a blockbuster finale to the Club World Cup, as Chelsea take on Paris Saint-Germain this Sunday, July 13, at 4 PM (Brasília time). While PSG arrive as Champions League winners and clear favorites, Chelsea’s rise under new manager Enzo Maresca has been one of the tournament’s most surprising storylines.
A Season of Growth: Maresca Turns Doubt into Belief
When Enzo Maresca took the reins at Stamford Bridge this season, many questioned the appointment. A relatively inexperienced coach at the top level, Maresca stepped into a turbulent Chelsea rebuild, following years of transition and mixed results.
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But fast forward to the Club World Cup final, and the tone has changed completely.
Maresca not only guided Chelsea to the UEFA Conference League title, but also secured Champions League qualification through a top-four Premier League finish. His tactical adjustments, calm leadership, and ability to get the best out of a large, young squad have won over the locker room and a growing number of fans.
Club World Cup Reflects Chelsea’s Season Arc
Chelsea’s journey in this Club World Cup mirrors their broader season trajectory: a slow start, followed by consistent improvement and growing belief.
- 63 matches played
- 40 victories
- Only 1 loss in the Club World Cup
- Qualified for the Champions League
The only blemish in the tournament came in the group stage, when Chelsea suffered a surprise 3-1 defeat to Flamengo, who scored three times in the second half to complete a dramatic comeback. Since then, however, Maresca’s men have shown maturity and resilience qualities that were missing at the beginning of the campaign.
Depth, Consistency & Confidence
One of the main challenges Maresca faced early in the season was managing a bloated squad, particularly in the first half of the campaign. In European football, many coaches prefer smaller, more streamlined rosters, but the Italian found a way to keep the squad competitive while building chemistry.
Key players such as Cole Palmer, Nicolas Jackson, and Conor Gallagher have emerged as reliable performers, while experienced names like Thiago Silva have provided leadership. And now, Chelsea stand 90 minutes away from becoming the first club to win the Club World Cup under its current expanded format.
Injury Update: Will Moisés Caicedo Play?
One of the big questions heading into the final is the fitness of Moisés Caicedo. The Ecuadorian midfielder, a crucial figure in Chelsea’s midfield, picked up a knock during the semifinal against Fluminense.
However, reports suggest that the injury is not serious, and Caicedo is expected to be available for selection in the final. His presence will be vital as Chelsea aim to contain PSG’s dynamic attack, led by global stars like Kylian Mbappé and Vitinha.
Final Thoughts: A Shot at History
If Chelsea defeat PSG, they will lift the Club World Cup for the second time in their history having previously won it in 2021 and the first under the new expanded format.
From early-season skepticism to reaching a major international final, Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea project is gathering momentum. Sunday’s showdown won’t just be about silverware it’s a chance for the Blues to mark a new era with a defining victory.
Don’t miss it: Chelsea vs PSG, Sunday, July 13, 4 PM (Brasília time)
