Chelsea face a crucial Club World Cup fixture on Tuesday night against Esperance Tunis, but head coach Enzo Maresca is focused on managing not only the opposition but also the extreme heat in Philadelphia. With temperatures soaring to 37-38°C, Maresca has already adapted the team’s training to conserve energy ahead of the game.
A win for either side will guarantee passage to the last 16, but Chelsea, who boast a stronger goal difference, only need a draw to progress. Despite that slight advantage, the Premier League side must cope with oppressive conditions that are affecting preparations.
Maresca admitted that training has been significantly scaled back due to the heat. Monday’s session was brief, focused purely on tactical planning, with physical intensity kept to a minimum. The Italian coach emphasized the reality of the weather, stating that the heat is not an excuse but a genuine obstacle that affects performance and preparation.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Maresca acknowledged the challenge, saying that the extreme weather makes it almost impossible to train normally. He stressed the importance of adapting, preserving energy, and staying focused on the objective — winning the match and advancing.
Maresca is expected to stick with his strategy of rotating the squad. Several key players, including Levi Colwill, Marc Cucurella, Moises Caicedo, and Cole Palmer, have logged heavy minutes in the opening two matches. Pedro Neto is also among those who could be rested or rotated to manage fatigue.
Despite the adverse conditions, the Chelsea camp remains determined. Maresca made it clear that his team is not looking for excuses and is solely focused on doing what it takes to secure qualification. Their adaptability and depth will be tested under the harsh heat at Lincoln Financial Field.