After lifting the Club World Cup trophy following a commanding victory over Paris Saint-Germain, a distinct sense of self-assurance emanated from the Chelsea squad. Heading into the final, external assumptions had favored their Parisian opponents, yet the Blues arrived at MetLife Stadium and systematically dismantled PSG`s game, earning their second piece of silverware this season. As Levi Colwill concisely put it post-match, “That`s what Chelsea does, Chelsea wins.”
While that statement hasn`t consistently reflected Chelsea`s reality in recent years, the Club World Cup win provides tangible evidence – a badge they can proudly wear on their shirts until the next edition in 2029 – that the capability for winning major honours still exists within the club. Securing qualification for the Champions League for the first time since the 2022-23 season by winning the Conference League was arguably an expectation, and achieving a top-four Premier League finish was a significant accomplishment. However, the manner of defeating PSG felt like a genuine callback to the Chelsea teams that routinely contended for top honours, even if it was contained within a single 90-minute performance.
The players themselves highlighted their motivation. As Colwill explained, “We knew this was our last game of football for this season, so there`s no way we were going to go on holiday and sit there thinking oh, I wish I could`ve gave that little bit more for the team. I told everyone this before the game, and we went there and gave everything, and that`s what the scoreline reflects, and that`s why we wanted it.” This drive was evident across the pitch.
Midfielders Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo delivered performances befitting their considerable transfer fees, effectively controlling the centre of the park. Cole Palmer continued to demonstrate why he is considered one of the Premier League`s standout talents, and Marc Cucurella was notably effective across multiple areas. Even Joao Pedro, acquired just 11 days before the final, led the attack competently and scored, offering a glimpse of hope that a reliable, impactful number nine might have finally arrived, a void felt keenly since the departure of Diego Costa.
On the surface, there is much to commend about this iteration of the Chelsea squad, particularly the confidence derived from this tournament success. Players spoke openly about how belief grew with each victory, directly contributing to their final triumph. However, for a club of Chelsea`s stature, this progress cannot end here. As captain Reece James reflected after his own strong midfield display, “Today showed how far our club has come. We`ve had a difficult few years not competing in the Champions League, and this was the toughest test today… we knew it was going to be tough, and I know the team was ready, and I think we showed that.”
Despite the positives, significant operational questions remain that will dictate how far this team can truly go. With Champions League football on the horizon, coach Enzo Maresca will not have the luxury of the extensive squad rotation employed during the Conference League campaign, where he often fielded nearly two entirely separate teams. This increased workload will test the depth and fitness of the squad, potentially removing the advantage of freshness Chelsea enjoyed in the CWC compared to opponents. Further transfer market activity, such as potential player departures, will also necessitate adjustments. The goalkeeping situation, despite Robert Sanchez`s impressive six saves in the final, could also see developments, as suggested by prior links to other keepers like Milan`s Mike Maignan.
Ultimately, the Club World Cup success is a critical step and a potent confidence booster. It demonstrates the team`s capability to perform under pressure, win consecutive knockout games against challenging opposition, and adapt tactical approaches. Carrying this capability across two-legged ties in the Champions League group stage and beyond will be the next significant challenge. While this squad, in its current configuration, may not be universally viewed as immediate Premier League title contenders, the direction of travel is undeniably positive. Resolving key personnel questions, such as establishing a consistent leading striker, could accelerate the return to the domestic summit. Yet, even if that doesn`t happen overnight, the Club World Cup has provided compelling evidence that Chelsea is firmly back on the right track towards competing among the elite.
