Pedro Neto's Club World Cup participation uncertain after friend's death

Enzo Maresca has stated that Pedro Neto will have the final say on whether he is ready to play.

Neto, who played with Diogo Jota at Wolverhampton Wanderers and won the Nations League with him last month, was excused from Chelsea's training following Jota's passing.

Maresca expressed uncertainty about Neto's readiness to face Palmeiras in the Club World Cup quarter-finals, given the somber mood at Chelsea's training camp. Neto was granted permission to skip the session.

Chelsea players have shown support for Neto during this difficult time. Maresca emphasized that it is entirely Neto's decision whether to play or not.

Marc Cucurella, a Chelsea left-back, backed Neto to perform well if he decides to play, highlighting Neto's recent good form in the tournament.

Chelsea is facing selection issues in midfield, with Moisés Caicedo serving a one-match ban and doubts over Romeo Lavia's fitness due to a muscle problem.

Chelsea has made transfer moves, agreeing on deals for Borussia Dortmund winger Jamie Gittens and Brighton forward Joao Pedro. It is uncertain if Joao Pedro will feature in the match against Palmeiras.

The tie also features Willian Estêvão, an 18-year-old Palmeiras winger set to join Chelsea after the Club World Cup. Palmeiras manager Abel Ferreira expressed confidence in Estêvão's commitment to the current team before his move.

Ferreira, missing defenders Gustavo Gómez and Murilo, humorously called on locals to support Palmeiras against Chelsea on the Fourth of July, framing the match as a battle of Independence Day.