Despite Chelsea's strong showing at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, manager Enzo Maresca is tempering expectations, stating that his team is not the favorite to win the competition. As Chelsea prepares to face Fluminense in the semi-final, Maresca acknowledges the quality of the remaining teams, emphasizing that any of them could win.

Maresca's Chelsea has impressed during their pre-season tour in the United States. The team finished second in Group D and progressed through the knockout stages by defeating Benfica and Palmeiras.

However, Maresca faces selection challenges due to injuries and suspensions. Levi Colwill and Liam Delap are suspended for the semi-final, and Romeo Lavia is unavailable due to a muscular injury. On a positive note, Moises Caicedo is back in contention. Maresca has expressed confidence in his squad's depth, stating that new signing Joao Pedro is ready to contribute.

Maresca is focused on continuing Chelsea's tradition of winning trophies. He views the Club World Cup as an opportunity to add silverware to the club's collection. He also acknowledged the strong support from Chelsea's American fanbase.

Chelsea's progress under Maresca has instilled hope that they can win the Club World Cup. The team's commitment to youth is evident, with players like Cole Palmer, Delap, Moises Caicedo, Levi Colwill, and Malo Gusto forming the core of the squad.

Despite the potential financial rewards, Maresca insists that the Chelsea leadership has not pressured the team to win the tournament. He remains focused on the immediate challenge of facing Fluminense, recognizing that any team that has reached this stage of the competition is capable of winning. He is also trying to adjust to the hot weather in Philadelphia, where Chelsea has been training.

Maresca recognizes Cole Palmer's importance to the team, calling him one of the best players who can produce something out of nothing.