Chelsea have learnt that they will be facing Champions League holders PSG in the Club World Cup final in a bid to be named the best club in the world.
The Blues were in control for much of their semi-final against Fluminense, however the performance was notable for Joao Pedro’s sensational two goals on his first start for the club.
There were some worries at the final whistle. Moises Caicedo limped off and is in danger of missing the final due to an ankle problem.
His presence is certainly going to be necessary in the heart of midfield, with Chelsea going in as firm underdogs against the side who just dismantled Real Madrid in emphatic fashion in their own semi-final.
Enzo Maresca must not start Malo Gusto in Club World Cup final
There will also be a hope that Reece James is fit enough to return, however he should return to his strongest position of right-back.
This would likely see Malo Gusto return to the bench, and despite the fact he has been a regular in this tournament, would not be a bad thing for Chelsea.
Scott Minto has spotted that Gusto is having a tough time of things at the moment, with it looking as if he is struggling to carry out the expectations Enzo Maresca has of right-back.
The current PSG side are known for their ability to press from the front, and playing out from the back is going to be extremely difficult.
This is an area Gusto struggles in, and the quality of wide players the French club have will need Chelsea to start their best full-backs. These are James and Marc Cucurella.
Maresca’s injury crisis ahead of Club World Cup final
The Blues were without Romeo Lavia for their semi-final against Fluminense. Maresca stated that he had been training away from the group to aid his rehabilitation.
It was also reported that Dario Essugo had picked up a problem, and will not be available again until the new Premier League season arrives.
If Caicedo is also unavailable, then the manager faces a real problem in the midfield, which could provide another chance for Andrey Santos to start.
The Brazilian was thrown into the quarter-final at late notice, however showed he can be a real option for Maresca going forwards.
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