Chelsea are reaping major financial rewards from their run in FIFA’s restructured Club World Cup, which is helping offset their heavy summer spending. While the tournament has faced criticism as a commercial ploy, Enzo Maresca’s men are treating it with utmost seriousness and are now just one win away from the final.
Having benefited from a favorable draw, the Blues avoided facing Europe’s elite again, though Fluminense—fresh off a stunning win over Inter—pose a real threat. The Brazilian side, led by former Chelsea veteran Thiago Silva, won’t be taken lightly.
With some players suspended and others returning from injury, here’s how Maresca could line up his side at MetLife Stadium:
Predicted Chelsea XI vs Fluminense
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GK: Robert Sánchez
Despite Filip Jørgensen getting a run-out in the group stage, Sánchez has featured most frequently and is expected to start again—possibly for the last time as Chelsea’s No. 1.
RB: Malo Gusto
With Reece James only just returning from injury, Gusto should retain his place after delivering the decisive cross in the quarterfinal.
CB: Trevoh Chalobah
Once on the fringes, Chalobah has become a vital part of Maresca’s back line.
CB: Tosin Adarabioyo
With Levi Colwill suspended, Tosin—who netted on Matchday 3—should partner Chalobah in central defence.
LB: Marc Cucurella
One of the few ever-presents in the competition, Cucurella has logged the joint-most minutes alongside Sánchez.
CM: Moisés Caicedo
Back from suspension, the Ecuadorian is expected to return straight into the starting XI.
CM: Enzo Fernández
Though Andrey Santos impressed in the last round, Maresca is likely to return to his preferred midfield duo of Fernández and Caicedo. Roméo Lavia remains sidelined.
RW: Cole Palmer
Palmer’s role has varied throughout the tournament, and he could once again operate fluidly from the right.
AM: João Pedro
Fresh from joining the club and making an impact off the bench, Pedro is pushing for a full debut in the No. 10 role.
LW: Pedro Neto
With Noni Madueke likely on his way to Arsenal, Neto—who has three goals at the tournament—should start on the left.
ST: Nicolas Jackson
Despite recent disciplinary issues and the suspension of Liam Delap, Jackson could lead the line, though Pedro or Christopher Nkunku are alternative options.
With a place in the final on the line, all eyes will be on Maresca’s reshuffled side as they aim to continue Chelsea’s strong Club World Cup run.
