Football, a sport often prone to dramatic swings and instant narratives, recently offered a compelling chapter involving Chelsea Football Club. Emerging victorious from the FIFA Club World Cup final against a formidable Paris Saint-Germain side at MetLife Stadium, the London giants lifted their second piece of silverware this season. This triumph, particularly after a period marked by inconsistency and change, inevitably raises the pivotal question: Is Chelsea truly back?
The immediate aftermath certainly suggested a shift in demeanor. A visible sense of swagger, noted by players like Levi Colwill, permeated the squad. The pre-match assumptions of a PSG victory were decisively countered by Chelsea`s performance – a high-intensity pressing game that stifled the Parisian attack. Colwill himself encapsulated the sentiment, stating plainly, “That`s what Chelsea does, Chelsea wins.” A statement that, while perhaps slightly aspirational given recent history, carries newfound weight after securing a global title they can proudly display.
This Club World Cup win, coupled with securing a place in the upcoming Champions League campaign (a return after the 2022-23 season), feels different from simply meeting expectations like winning the Conference League. Defeating PSG in a major final, even in a one-off tournament, provided a potent reminder of the Chelsea team that once competed for top honors consistently. For 90 minutes, at least, that version seemed to be back.
Key performances underpinned the victory. Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo demonstrated why significant investments were made in them, controlling the midfield battle. Cole Palmer continued to exhibit the form that has made him a Premier League standout. Marc Cucurella was a dynamic presence across the pitch. Even new arrival Joao Pedro, joining just 11 days prior, led the line effectively and scored, offering a glimmer of hope in the protracted search for a reliable goalscorer reminiscent of Diego Costa`s impactful tenure.
There is, undeniably, much to admire about the current squad`s potential. However, a single glorious weekend doesn`t suddenly fix everything, does it? The transition from a less demanding Conference League schedule, which allowed extensive squad rotation under Enzo Maresca, to the relentless pace of Champions League football will be a significant test. Players will face increased minutes and physical demands. Further squad adjustments are anticipated, with potential departures like Noni Madueke. Yet, the intangible boost in confidence derived from navigating a knockout tournament and beating a top team cannot be overstated. Players spoke of growing belief with each victory, a momentum that proved crucial.
Captain Reece James, whose own battle with injuries has somewhat mirrored the club`s recent struggles, reflected on the significance. He acknowledged the difficult years outside of top-tier European competition and highlighted the PSG match as the toughest test faced recently, praising the team`s readiness. The depth now available, partly thanks to a larger squad, should ideally allow for better management of key players like James, ensuring availability for crucial fixtures.
The goalkeeper situation also remains under scrutiny. While Robert Sanchez delivered an excellent performance in the final with key saves, previous links to players like AC Milan`s Mike Maignan indicate this area is still being evaluated. Decisions in such critical positions will shape the team`s trajectory over a long season.
Ultimately, the Club World Cup success provides invaluable experience in winning consecutive high-pressure games against strong opponents. Taking this learning into potential two-legged ties in the Champions League league phase will be the next hurdle. Winning the Premier League title might still be a season or two away, given the current setup, but the trajectory appears positive. Finding a definitive solution at striker – whether Joao Pedro, Liam Delap, or another player emerges – would undoubtedly accelerate the ascent. But even without an immediate solution there, the Club World Cup has served as a powerful indicator: Chelsea is, indeed, moving in the right direction.