FIFA Club World Cup: Big boost for Chelsea as star player recovers in time to face PSG

Maresca

FIFA Club World Cup: Big boost for Chelsea as star player recovers in time to face PSG

Hassan Abdulsalam 11:57 - 12.07.2025

Big boosts for Chelsea ahead of Club World Cup final against PSG

Chelsea have received a timely fitness boost ahead of their blockbuster FIFA Club World Cup final against Paris Saint-Germain, with midfield anchor Moises Caicedo declared ready for action.

Moises Caicedo
Chelsea midfielder Moises Caicedo Moises Caicedo is a doubt for the Club World Cup final (Credit: Imago)

The Ecuadorian international resumed training on Thursday after sustaining an ankle injury in Tuesday’s semi-final clash against Fluminense, raising concerns about his availability for Sunday’s final at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

Renowned football journalist Fabrizio Romano confirmed Caicedo’s swift recovery, reporting that the midfielder is “ready to play” after sitting out the latter stages of the 3-1 semi-final victory.

What Maresca said

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca confirmed the positive news during a press conference, noting that while Caicedo couldn’t complete the full training session, his involvement in the final looks increasingly likely.

“Yes, for sure, Moises is such an important player for us. This morning he couldn't take part in the training session fully but we hope he can take part on Sunday,” Maresca said.

Caicedo has been a key part of Chelsea’s campaign at the Club World Cup, starting four of their six games in the tournament. His ball-winning abilities and composure in midfield will be vital as the Blues look to counter PSG’s technically gifted midfield trio.

Chelsea eyes second trophy

The final against PSG presents a golden opportunity for Chelsea to wrap up the 2024/25 season with a second piece of silverware, following their earlier success in the EFL Cup.

With top names like Enzo Fernandez, Christopher Nkunku, and captain Reece James all expected to feature, the return of Caicedo could tilt the balance in the Premier League side’s favour.

PSG, who reached the final after edging out Real Madrid, are banking on their attacking trio led by Kylian Mbappé, but Chelsea’s midfield engine room will be crucial in dictating the tempo.

Fans will be watching closely to see if Caicedo is fit enough to start or if he will be introduced off the bench, depending on the match’s intensity.

The highly anticipated final will take place on Sunday, at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, with kickoff scheduled for 8:00 p.m. Nigerian time.