Maresca boasts over Chelsea players before Club World Cup final

Enzo Maresca has lauded his Chelsea players for their readiness and contributions, highlighting how the demanding Club World Cup has showcased the strength and depth of his squad.

The head coach has provided minutes to every available outfield player, including new signing Joao Pedro, who impressively scored two goals against his former club Fluminense on Tuesday. 

Maresca has utilised 27 players for Chelsea in the United States, where the Blues have benefitted from a kind draw to reach the final.

Maresca emphasised the importance of having a large and prepared squad for such a demanding competition, highlighting his players' professionalism and quality. 

The Italian manager expressed pride that Chelsea's strong end to the regular season has extended into the tournament.

“Playing every three days in this competition, you need a big squad, you need all the players,” said Maresca.

“But also they have to be ready, and they have to show they are good players, that we can count on them, and how professional they are. It is something that we also need for the future.”

Maresca then stressed that Chelsea are restoring their rightful place in football, having secured a top-four Premier League finish, won the Conference League and now reached this major final.

“The last few years have not been what the club deserves or what the history of this club says. This year, luckily, has gone quite well,” the manager continued.

“We have finished top four and qualified for the Champions League. In the Conference League, we managed to win it, and now we are in this final. We are very proud to help the club get back to where it deserves to be.”

Chelsea will face Paris Saint-Germain in Sunday’s final, aiming to cap off an encouraging season with a second title after the Conference League.