Enzo Maresca stated that he will leave it up to Pedro Neto to decide whether he is ready to play against Palmeiras after Chelsea allowed the winger to skip training following the passing of his friend and international teammate Diogo Jota.
Neto and Jota were teammates at Wolverhampton Wanderers and won the Nations League together last month while representing Portugal, with Jota also playing for Liverpool.
A subdued atmosphere filled Chelsea’s training camp as they geared up for their Club World Cup quarter-final against Palmeiras on Friday. Neto was excused from the session, and Maresca was uncertain if the winger would be mentally prepared to participate.
"It’s a very difficult day," Maresca said. "Words are hard to find. In moments like this, you feel powerless. My deepest sympathies go to [Jota’s] family—this is a great loss for them. As for Pedro, he is devastated. More than just sad. We are here to support him."
"Since he wasn’t at training earlier, the choice is entirely his. We spoke this morning, and whatever he decides will be the right call.”
Marc Cucurella expressed confidence in Neto, who has netted three goals in the tournament, to deliver if he takes the field.
"The manager and Pedro must make the decision, but his well-being is most important," the Chelsea defender said. "Football is secondary right now, but with a long day ahead, whatever is decided will be fine. He’s in good form, and I believe he can contribute if he plays."
Chelsea’s squad has supported Neto through the difficult time. "This morning he was in a tough place," Cucurella added. "But as the day went on, he seemed a little better. I told him that if he plays, he’ll score—it’s meant to be. Hopefully, we can show our support and, if it happens, dedicate that moment to him."
Chelsea also face concerns in midfield. Moisés Caicedo is suspended for one match, and Maresca indicated that Romeo Lavia, absent from training this week, may miss out due to a muscle issue.
"His availability is uncertain," Maresca said. "We’ll assess him. He had minor discomfort after the Benfica match. It’s a muscular issue, and we’ll see if he’s fit. With Moi out as well, we’ll need alternatives."
The club has finalized terms on a £48.5m deal, plus potential add-ons, for Borussia Dortmund’s Jamie Gittens and has also brought in Joao Pedro from Brighton for up to £60m. It remains unclear if João Pedro will be ready to play against Palmeiras.
"João Pedro’s situation is unusual because he was on a break," Maresca noted. "Training alone isn’t the same as working with the team. We’re pleased with his progress in these two days, but we’ll assess whether he’s needed."
Another notable aspect of the match is Willian Estêvão, Palmeiras’ 18-year-old winger, potentially facing his future club.
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