“It’s Impossible to Train!” – Enzo Maresca Blames Brutal Heatwave for Chelsea’s Club World Cup Struggles

Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has admitted it is “impossible” to carry out proper training sessions as his players battle scorching temperatures in the United States during the FIFA Club World Cup.

The Blues are currently in Philadelphia, where a severe “code red” heat warning has been issued. Temperatures have hit 37°C (100°F) with humidity levels making it feel even hotter—up to 45°C on the pitch. The heat is so extreme that local officials have warned the public to avoid heavy physical activity outdoors.

“It’s very, very, very difficult,” said Maresca ahead of Chelsea’s final Group D game. “This morning’s session was very short. We had to focus only on tomorrow’s game because if we do more, the players won’t have any energy left.”

Maresca said the situation makes normal training “impossible” and stressed how challenging it’s been for the squad to adapt to the punishing conditions. “We’re trying our best, but it’s not easy,” he added.

Chelsea trained at Subaru Park, home of MLS club Philadelphia Union, but the session was shortened drastically. Players were seen taking water breaks at every opportunity, and massive fans sprayed cool mist on them from the sidelines. Iced water bottles were placed all over the pitch, and only part of the stadium offered shade from the burning sun.

Chelsea defender Marc Cucurella described the conditions as something the players have to quickly adapt to. “It takes some getting used to,” said the Spaniard. “We played a lot last season, but we know we’re here to compete. We want to go far in this tournament.”

The heat has raised serious questions about the United States’ ability to host matches in similar conditions at next year’s World Cup. Borussia Dortmund boss Niko Kovac described conditions in Cincinnati as “like a sauna” after playing in 32°C. Atletico Madrid’s Marcos Llorente said it was “terribly hot” in Pasadena and complained his toes and nails were hurting from the heat during a 4-0 loss to PSG.

Chelsea’s situation is just as urgent. They face Tunisian side ES Tunis in their final group match and must avoid defeat to reach the last 16, where a showdown with Bayern Munich, Benfica or Boca Juniors could await.

But the Blues will be without key players. Captain Reece James is ill and remains a doubt, while striker Nicolas Jackson is suspended after a red card in the 3-1 loss to Flamengo.

The pressure is on for Maresca and his squad. After the disappointment against Flamengo, Chelsea must respond quickly, even as they battle both the opposition and the climate.

“We are here to win it,” Maresca said firmly. “If we want to win, we must accept the conditions and work even harder.”