Three things to look for in the Club World Cup final: Chelsea vs Palmeiras

Chelsea asked more questions than it answered with its performance on Wednesday against Al Hilal. The Blues squeaked into the final of the FIFA Club World Cup with a 1-0 win over the Saudi Arabian club in a game that was anything but comfortable. It was the same old song and dance from the reigning European Champions as they failed to put a game away late after taking a lead. This allowed Al Hilal to grow in confidence and if not for the heroics of Kepa Arrizabalaga, this article would’ve previewed a meaningless match between Chelsea and Al Ahly for third place.

Nevertheless, that isn’t the case. The Blues have a date with Palmeiras in the final and there is no shortage of intriguing talking points ahead of the highly anticipated contest. Thomas Tuchel has decisions to make all over the pitch—that is, after he decides on which formation to play. The UEFA representative is looking to clinch its first trophy in this specific tournament throughout its storied history. It was a similar circumstance that saw Chelsea defeated in heartbreaking fashion a decade ago at the hands of a Brazilian club. Can the Blues avoid another devastating defeat on Saturday or is their fate already sealed? Some of these decisions might determine that answer.

Here are three things to look for in the build-up to the weekend’s Club World Cup final:

1. Will some key names be included?

If a casual spectator decided to sit through either of Chelsea’s last two showdowns, he or she would have surely noticed the subdued nature of the Blues’ sideline. This is because the Blues’ fearless—and loud—leader has been stuck in isolation back in London. Tuchel tested positive for COVID-19 ahead of the game against Plymouth and he has yet to join up with the team. Only the players can attest to the impact it’s had on the squad throughout the games, especially because he’s still been able to relay managerial decisions to his staff via real-time video calls, but it’s safe to infer there is that certain spark missing without the gaffer physically present.

Reports have stated that as long as Tuchel tests negative for Coronavirus before Saturday’s final, he will at the very least be in attendance in Abu Dhabi for the match. This would be a huge pick-me-up for a Chelsea team that looked in need of motivation against Al Hilal. No offense to Arno Michels, who has done well in doing what’s been asked of him in Tuchel’s absence, he just isn’t the type of manager the Blues need right now. Tuchel’s track record speaks for itself. He is a natural winner and those individuals come in handy when trophies are on the line.

Regardless of whether or not the beloved head coach is on the touchline this weekend, there are some key personnel decisions he’ll have to make as it relates his starting XI. The first and arguably most important call he’ll have to make is whether or not to include Mason Mount in the line-up. Mount came off in extra time with a knock against Plymouth, which saw him dropped midweek. He did make a 20-minute cameo in the semifinal though. Mount didn’t play his best football due to the position he was put in, but he seemed to be moving fine. Therefore, if the English star boy is ready to go, Tuchel shouldn’t hesitate from including him from the off.

Unfortunately, both of Chelsea’s wingbacks have been ruled out of the tournament. Ben Chilwell is obviously out for the season, but there was some optimism Reece James could be ready to go. He’ll be on the bench—along with his compatriot, Chilwell—cheering on his teammates and wishing he could be out on the pitch as he strives to return for the Crystal Palace match.

Lastly, Edouard Mendy is another name to keep an eye on for a potential return. He’s missed over a month due to his involvement in the African Cup of Nations. Mendy has linked up with his team in the United Arab Emirates following his successes with Senegal and the Goalkeeper of the Tournament (AFCON) looks ready for selection. More on this in the next slide . . .