Chelsea flop named alongside three teammates in Club World Cup Team of the Week

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Chelsea were excellent in their Club World Cup semi-final against Fluminense to set up a showdown with PSG in the final.

The Blues won 2-0 in New Jersey, with Enzo Maresca’s faith in his newest player being looked at as a genius decision.

Joao Pedro scored either side of half-time on his first start for the club, with even Fluminense fans having to applaud their former player after he decided not to celebrate his goals.

Thiago Silva was full of praise for Pedro after the game, with pundits and Maresca all keen to show their admiration for his performance too.

The Brazilian is now a shoo-in to start the final, despite the fact that Liam Delap will be available again after serving his suspension.

Pedro was joined in attack by Christopher Nkunku, despite there being no clarity as to whether he will remain at Stamford Bridge for next season.

The Frenchman has enjoyed a successful Club World Cup so far, and his most recent performance was acknowledged by WhoScored. They named him in their Team of the Week.

Despite PSG players dominating the lineup, Cole Palmer and Pedro Neto also earned themselves a place, alongside goalscorer Pedro, who was the second highest rated player in there.

Maresca was likely wary about starting Noni Madueke after reports have stated that he has agreed personal terms over a move to Arsenal, and Nkunku has certainly taken the surprising chance handed his way.

Chelsea’s Christopher Nkunku status

All through the 2024/25 season, reports continued to state that Nkunku was likely to leave the club when the transfer window opened this summer.

Bayern Munich are keen on Nkunku, with him playing the best football of his career during his time in the Bundesliga.

However, Maresca has praised Nkunku during this tournament. His goal against Benfica sparked wild celebrations from Chelsea players and staff.

With Pedro and Jamie Gittens already joining the club, and rumours of wanting another attacker, it still feels like the France international has a lot to do to remain a genuine option for minutes in West London.