Enzo Maresca is brimming with pride after Chelsea secured their place in the FIFA Club World Cup final with a 2-0 victory over Fluminense. The Chelsea manager lauded his team's performance, highlighting the significance of reaching the final in a season that has already seen them achieve a top-four finish in the Premier League and win the Conference League.
Speaking after the game, Maresca described reaching the final as "a great achievement". He acknowledged the challenges his team has faced throughout the season and praised the players for their fantastic response. "It's been a fantastic season," he said. "We made the top four, won the Conference League, and are now in the final here. We are so so happy". He further added, "We're very happy because I know how difficult it is, with all the situations".
Chelsea's route to the final saw them overcome Brazilian side Fluminense at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. A brace from debutant Joao Pedro, who previously played for Fluminense, secured the victory. Pedro's goals, one in each half, showcased his talent and composure, leaving Maresca impressed. The first goal was a composed, curling finish in the 18th minute, followed by a powerful strike off the crossbar in the 56th minute. Maresca said, "We knew already how good he was, but today he played a bit more deep, and we know how good he is to drop and link, he is very good technically". He also acknowledged the good competition within the squad, particularly among the strikers, with Nicolas Jackson also available.
Maresca emphasized the importance of taking each game as it comes. "We go game by game. We know what we need to," he stated. With the final being the last game of the season, he hopes his team can end on a high by winning the tournament.
Looking ahead to the final, Chelsea will face either Paris Saint-Germain or Real Madrid. Maresca recognizes the quality of both potential opponents. "They are both top teams, one won the Champions League this season, and the other last season, so they are top teams, but we are proud and happy to be there," he said. Despite the challenge, Maresca remains confident in his team's ability to compete and potentially lift the trophy. However, he has also downplayed the idea that Chelsea are favorites to win the Club World Cup, acknowledging the caliber of their potential opponents.
This marks Chelsea's third appearance in a Club World Cup final. They lost to Corinthians in 2012 but won the title in 2021 against Palmeiras. A victory in the upcoming final would put them level with Bayern Munich and Corinthians as two-time winners of the competition.
Chelsea has already secured a significant financial windfall for reaching the Club World Cup final, earning $30 million (£22.1 million). Their total prize money from the tournament is now up to $45.625 million (£33.5 million), in addition to a participation fee believed to be around £28 million. Overall, Chelsea has received over £60 million from the Club World Cup.
As Chelsea prepares for the final, Maresca and his team have much to be proud of. Their journey to the final has been a testament to their hard work, resilience, and quality. Regardless of the outcome, their achievements this season have already made it a memorable one for the club and its supporters.
