Pedro Could Make Chelsea Debut in Club World Cup Clash with Palmeiras

Pedro’s Chelsea Bow Edges Closer

There is an early sense of anticipation around Chelsea’s Club World Cup campaign as Joao Pedro prepares for what could be his debut under Enzo Maresca. The Blues face Palmeiras in the quarter-final on Friday evening in Philadelphia, with the game kicking off at 2am UK time on Saturday.

Photo: IMAGO

Pedro, who completed a £60 million move from Brighton earlier this week, is available for selection despite a disrupted pre-season schedule.

Maresca explained the striker’s situation with understated caution. “Joao’s situation is a bit strange or different because he was on holiday. Even if he was working it is not the same when you work for yourself, compared with when you work with the team,” he said.

Photo IMAGO

Maresca Keeps Options Open

The Chelsea head coach added: “But we are very happy with Joao. In the last two days he worked with us. We’ll see if we need him and if we have a chance to give him some minutes we’re going to give him some minutes.”

The game may offer a glimpse of Maresca’s long-term attacking vision.