Enzo Maresca is going to have to solve an unfamiliar problem by the time Chelsea get back in action in the Club World Cup at the weekend.
The Blues boss will need to construct a side good enough to beat Estevao Willian’s Palmeiras side that does not consist of Moises Caicedo.
The Ecuador international enjoyed a player of the match display in the chaotic Round of 16 tie against Benfica, however picked up his second yellow card of the tournament
This means Caicedo will now be banned for the quarter-final, and the manager will need to replace the player who John Terry has described as ‘superb’.
The former Brighton midfielder started against Benfica alongside Romeo Lavia, behind Enzo Fernandez in the middle of the park.
Enzo Maresca celebrates at the end of Club World Cup Round of 16 tie between Chelsea and Benfica
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Dario Essugo handed big Chelsea chance after Moises Caicedo’s suspension
Whilst many supporters will call for a first competitive start for Andrey Santos, Maresca should look to Dario Essugo as the most suitable replacement for their next game.
When signed, Chelsea had likened Essugo to Caicedo, with them both excelling in similar areas of their games.
Winning the ball back is one of his strengths, while Chelsea will look to Lavia to start a lot of their attacks with his distribution in midfield.
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Having another player who can do some of what Caicedo can will of been one of the club’s priorities ahead of a season that will also consist of Champions League football. Caicedo started all 38 league games last season.
Esperance de Tunis v Chelsea FC: Group D - FIFA Club World Cup 2025
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Enzo Maresca a fan of Essugo
The Blues signed Essugo for £18m earlier this season, however the move was made official when the summer window began.
The boss has been able to take a look at the youngster on occasion this summer. He has made two cameo appearances off the bench already in the Club World Cup.
Maresca said he has a ‘good feeling’ about Essugo, although starting a game is a different challenge, and Chelsea will be keeping in mind their struggles last time they took to the field against a side from Brazil.
They were defeated by Flamengo in a game where Caicedo and Fernandez struggled to dictate the play, and they will need the story to be different if they are to book their place in the semi-finals.