Chelsea have secured their place in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 final after a convincing 2-0 victory over Fluminense on Tuesday. But head coach Enzo Maresca may have to make do without a key player when the Blues take the field in Sunday’s final.
Joao Pedro, a Fluminense academy product, led the way with two brilliant goals to propel Chelsea to the title match. The London side finished second in Group D behind Flamengo but has impressed throughout the tournament, earning close to £80 million in prize money so far.
However, concern now surrounds the fitness of Moises Caicedo. In stoppage time, the Ecuadorian midfielder collided with Jhon Arias and twisted his left ankle. Although Caicedo was able to return to the pitch after treatment, fans and staff alike noticed visible discomfort.
When asked about Caicedo’s status postgame, Maresca struck a cautious tone and issued a challenge to his player. “We’ll see. I told him that he has to do anything to be inside the pitch on Sunday in the final. But we’ll see,” he told DAZN after the game.
Maresca remains hopeful that Caicedo will recover in time for the final, where Chelsea will face either Real Madrid or Paris Saint-Germain at MetLife Stadium. Still, the late injury has cast doubt over what had appeared to be a settled lineup for the championship clash.
Chelsea chasing the perfect end to a breakout season
It’s a far cry from expectations at the start of the year, but Chelsea now have a chance to cap off a remarkable season. Under new leadership, they’ve secured Champions League qualification, lifted a European trophy, and now reached the final of the revamped Club World Cup. After the semifinal win, Maresca reflected on the club’s rapid rise.
“I’m pleased about everything to be honest. It’s a great achievement, it has been a fantastic season: top 4 in the (Premier) League, Conference League, now in the final in this competition. We’re so happy.” The Italian coach now has a shot to become the first manager to win the restructured edition of the Club World Cup—and possibly mark the beginning of a new era for the Blues.