Chelsea Forced to Shake Up Starting XI Against Fluminense Due to Key Player Suspensions

Gianni Infantino's profitable creation is significantly boosting Chelsea's financial position, with the London club nearly covering their summer spending through their advancement to the Club World Cup semifinals.

While critics have dismissed FIFA's restructured summer competition as merely a money-making scheme, Chelsea have demonstrated in America that this tournament holds tremendous importance for them.

Enzo Maresca's squad has capitalized on being placed in the 'easier' half of the draw, and they've once more sidestepped facing a major powerhouse with a final berth on the line. Nevertheless, Fluminense have already shocked Inter during the elimination rounds and will enter Tuesday's match believing victory is achievable, with 40-year-old ex-Chelsea defender Thiago Silva leading their resilient backline.

Here's how Maresca might arrange his squad at MetLife Stadium.

Chelsea Predicted Lineup vs. Fluminense (4-2-3-1)

GK: Robert Sánchez—Although Filip Jørgensen received playing time during the group phase, Sánchez has featured in most minutes throughout this summer campaign. Nevertheless, this could mark his final appearance as Chelsea's primary goalkeeper.

RB: Malo Gusto—Despite Reece James potentially returning to action following his pre-quarterfinal warm-up injury, Gusto, whose deflected delivery created Friday's decisive goal, should retain his starting position.

CB: Trevoh Chalobah—Previously sidelined by Maresca twelve months ago, the youth product has emerged as a crucial component of this Chelsea squad in 2025.

CB: Tosin Adarabioyo—With Levi Colwill serving a suspension for the semifinal, Tosin, who found the net on Matchday 3, is expected to enter the lineup alongside Chalobah.

LB: Marc Cucurella—While no Chelsea player has appeared in all five Club World Cup matches thus far, Cucurella has accumulated the highest minutes total alongside goalkeeper Sánchez (390).

CM: Moisés Caicedo—The midfielder returns from his suspension and is certain to feature at MetLife Stadium.

CM: Enzo Fernández—Though Andrey Santos received his chance to shine in the last round, Maresca will probably return to his preferred midfield pairing for the semifinal. Roméo Lavia appears set to remain sidelined due to injury.

RW: Cole Palmer—The Chelsea boss has experimented with Palmer's role throughout the competition, and the English talent could adopt a flexible position from the right flank.

AM: João Pedro—Following his recent club signing, Pedro immediately delivered an impressive substitute appearance and has fans already demanding his inclusion in the first eleven.

LW: Pedro Neto—With Noni Madueke's potential Arsenal move gaining momentum since the quarterfinal, the England winger will likely be restricted to a substitute role. As Maresca adjusts the formation behind the striker, Neto, who has netted three tournament goals, might operate from the left wing.

ST: Nicolas Jackson—Liam Delap faces suspension, and despite Jackson's recent disciplinary issues with consecutive red cards, Maresca could select the former Villarreal forward. Pedro and Christopher Nkunku remain viable options.