Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca says there's no pressure from the club’s owners to win the FIFA Club World Cup, even with a potential US$125 million prize on the line. The tournament offers US$1 billion in total prize money, but Maresca insists the focus is on performance and player development, not financial rewards.

Ahead of their must-win game against Tunisia’s Esperance, Maresca defended his tactical decisions in the previous 3-1 loss to Flamengo, stating he's using the tournament to test systems for the future. He acknowledged the challenges of training in Philadelphia’s intense heat and confirmed squad rotations due to conditions and Nicolas Jackson’s suspension.

Chelsea previously beat LAFC 2-0 but now face pressure to advance. If they do, a possible last-16 clash with Group C leaders—potentially Bayern Munich—awaits in Charlotte.

Esperance coach Maher Kanzari described the upcoming match as a "historic" opportunity for his team, vowing they’re mentally and physically ready to face the Blues.