Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Maresca confirmed that key midfielder Moises Caicedo is likely to be fit for the showdown, despite an earlier ankle injury scare sustained in the semi-final win over Fluminense.
This development, coupled with Maresca’s bullish confidence in Chelsea’s ability to upset the Champions League-winning PSG, has galvanized supporters, who are now dreaming of a second Club World Cup title following their 2021 triumph.
Maresca’s announcement about Caicedo’s potential availability is a major boost for the Blues, who face a formidable PSG side that has dominated the 2024/25 season, securing a domestic treble and their first Champions League title.
Caicedo, described as one of the standout midfielders of the tournament, is expected to partner Enzo Fernandez in midfield, forming a robust duo tasked with neutralizing PSG’s high-pressing, possession-heavy style under Luis Enrique. Maresca revealed that Caicedo returned to training on July 11, stating, “Moises is an important player for us. He participated in the session this morning, and I hope we can have him on Sunday.” This news has alleviated concerns raised on X, where posts from @CFCrss and @MailSport on July 8 and 9 highlighted fears that Caicedo might miss the final.
Beyond the injury update, Maresca’s infectious optimism has further lifted spirits. In his press conference, he described the mood in the Chelsea dressing room as “fantastic, top,” emphasizing the team’s readiness to face PSG, whom he called “probably the best team in the world.”
Despite acknowledging PSG’s dominance—evidenced by their 16 goals and just one conceded in the tournament, including a 4-0 thrashing of Real Madrid—Maresca insisted that “every game can be different.”
He likened the final to a “game of chess,” suggesting a tactical approach to counter PSG’s strengths, such as their high pressing and ball retention. Fans on X, like @RokaniMediaFB, echoed Maresca’s sentiment, noting his call for supporter trust after Chelsea’s top-four Premier League finish and Conference League win.
Maresca also highlighted forward Joao Pedro as a potential game-changer, praising his two goals in the 2-0 semi-final victory over Fluminense. While Maresca remained coy about Pedro’s starting role, saying, “We have 48 hours before the final.
We are lucky we can choose different options,” his comments have sparked excitement about Chelsea’s attacking depth. Posts on X, such as @BobbyVincentFL’s on July 8, underscored Pedro’s contribution and Maresca’s pride in reaching the final, amplifying fan optimism.
The Italian’s tactical preparation, praised by Malo Gusto for its detail-oriented approach to pressing and build-up play, has further fueled belief that Chelsea can pull off an upset.
However, challenges remain. PSG’s formidable form, with 48 wins since the start of the 2024/25 season, makes them heavy favorites. Maresca acknowledged their manager, Luis Enrique, as one of the world’s best, alongside Pep Guardiola, but remained defiant, citing examples like Botafogo’s earlier victory over PSG in the tournament.
Chelsea’s journey to the final—defeating Benfica 4-1, Palmeiras 2-1, and Fluminense 2-0—demonstrates their resilience, but the absence of Romeo Lavia due to injury and the potential departure of Noni Madueke to Arsenal add uncertainty.
Despite these hurdles, Maresca’s confidence and the return of Caicedo have fans dreaming of glory, with the $40 million prize fund adding extra incentive. As one X user, @goaldigest, posted on July 13, Maresca’s “laser focus” in training signals Chelsea’s all-in approach for the historic clash.
