Paris Saint-Germain boss Luis Enrique made it quite clear. He says Chelsea should not be underestimated. Despite the season Paris Saint-German has had, winning both their domestic league and the Champions League. Enrique does not regard the next Club World Cup final as an easy fight. The PSG boss was commending Chelsea for their energy, discipline, and quick style of play since hiring manager Enzo Maresca. Enrique believes this match will not be an easy victory.
He thinks Chelsea is well prepared and have developed fast. He described them as a team that presses hard, attacks with pace, and defends well collectively. Enrique views Chelsea as a serious competitor—a team that has similar objectives and playing style to PSG. This final is not simply to hoist a trophy. It’s about two teams with robust ideas confronting each other.
PSG’s Shared Vision and Style
Since becoming PSG boss, Enrique has been more about creating a team and not depending on individual superstars. With the departures of Messi, Neymar, and Mbappe, PSG now play as a unit. Enrique said the idea is to have “eleven stars” on the pitch, with everyone doing their job, rather than one or two doing all the work.
Chelsea are doing the same. On Maresca‘s watch, they have invested in youth players. They now play in a pressing style, and emphasized movement as a team. Players such as Cole Palmer, Moises Caicedo, and Enzo Fernandez exemplify this strategy. Their conquest of the UEFA Conference League and appearance in the Club World Cup final demonstrate that the strategy is paying dividends.
For both teams, the intention is obvious—teamwork over ego.
Chelsea Will Attack, Not Defend against PSG
Although Chelsea are not favorites, they will not let up in the final. Maresca’s side would like to go toe-to-toe with PSG by pressing high, dominating the ball, and beating them with pace. The likes of Palmer, Neto, and Liam Delap will spearhead the attack.
This is the kind of strategy that suits PSG’s style of play as well. Enrique added Chelsea did not come just to participate—Chelsea came to battle. He is anticipating a close match, where defense will determine the winner.
What This Match Means for Both Teams
For PSG, this match could cap off a perfect season. Winning the Club World Cup would be a first for them and a huge achievement for French football. Enrique knows what’s at stake and is pushing his team to stay sharp.
For Chelsea, victory would demonstrate that their new approach is correct. They’ve already stunned people by reaching this stage. Winning the trophy would increase belief in the club’s rebuilding process and allow the players and supporters to believe bigger.
Focus and Mental Strength Matter
Enrique said that he likes it better when he has to handle doubts rather than praise. He believes teams develop more when they are challenged. He also added that even the best clubs can lose their way, citing Manchester City’s current form as an example. That’s why he keeps his players sharp and humble.
Chelsea needs to be as tough mentally. Enrique admires them for the way they play and how they work. He views them as a clever and resilient opponent—not one to be taken lightly.
What to Expect at MetLife Stadium
We can expect:
•A closely contested game between two teams who press high and counter-attack quickly.
•PSG will employ control and shape.
•Chelsea will depend on tempo and direct play.
•Both coaches anticipate a tight, hard-fought contest.
This will not be a paceless, defensive final. It’s going to be a final full of pace, movement, and intelligent football.
Author’s Note
This final reveals how much Enzo Maresca has transformed Chelsea—and how much PSG have altered under Luis Enrique. Both teams now emphasize teamwork, graft, and intelligent play over superstars. Enrique’s compliment to Chelsea indicates they’ve impressed at the very top. Whether it’s PSG ending a fairy-tale season or Chelsea beginning a new chapter with a big victory, this game is more than just one evening. It’s football concepts, pride, and the next chapter for these two clubs.
As featured on Chelseanews.com
