Enzo Maresca’s match-winning decision against Palmeiras could signal the end of £32m player at Chelsea

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Chelsea continued their financially lucrative summer on the pitch by booking their place in the semi-finals of the Club World Cup with a 2-1 win over Palmeiras.

Cole Palmer’s first open play goal in 27 games got the Blues on their way, however a slice of luck in the form of an own goal got them over the line late on.

Chelsea had been pegged back early in the second half when Estevao Willian found the net from an impossible angle, giving supporters a glimpse of what they can expect from him at Stamford Bridge next season.

Enzo Maresca responded to the setback by bringing on Joao Pedro and Noni Madueke, with the former Brighton man making his debut just days after joining the club.

Enzo Maresca’s match-winning substitution could spell the end for Nicolas Jackson at Chelsea

Brazilian media were wowed by Pedro’s performance, as he instantly made an impact on his new side. Palmer admitted Pedro changed the game.

After replacing Liam Delap, it was interesting to note that when needing a goal, Maresca looked to the new signing instead of Nicolas Jackson, who was available again after his suspension earlier in the competition.

There was plenty of disappointment amongst Chelsea fans at the striker’s conduct. It was the second time in four matches Jackson had been sent off.

This has reportedly seen Jackson no longer seen as an untouchable Chelsea player, and given the fact he didn’t get a minute off the bench in a game where they were chasing a goal speaks volumes as to where Maresca sees his situation at.

Nicolas Jackson a wanted man

After two years as the regular number nine at Stamford Bridge, there are clearly a host of clubs keeping tabs on the Senegal international’s situation.

Arsenal have been linked with Jackson, however their priority at the moment seems to be the signing of Madueke after agreeing personal terms with the player.

Chelsea have set a high price tag on Jackson though, which at this point seems to be putting off any interest from abroad.

Jackson will be hoping Delap’s suspension for the semi-finals will give him the chance to begin to make amends. However, with how impressive Pedro was, the manager may hand him his first Chelsea start instead.