Chelsea Struggle with Scorching Heat in Philadelphia

Under intense heat in Philadelphia, Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca admitted training was “impossible” as temperatures at Subaru Park hit 37°C with humidity pushing the feels-like conditions to 45°C.

“This morning’s session has been very, very, very short,” Maresca stated. “Otherwise you don’t save energy for the game. It’s been just about tomorrow’s game, planning for tomorrow, and that’s it. No more than that.”

Forecasts suggest the city could see its first day above 100°F (37.8°C) in over a decade, and a local “code red” warning urged residents to avoid strenuous activity.

Despite this, FIFA’s match schedules for their expanded Club World Cup continue, with games kicking off when heat levels are at their peak.

“It’s difficult to work with these temperatures but we are here and we trying to do our best and we will try to win tomorrow,” said Maresca.

Borussia Dortmund boss Niko Kovac struggled in similar heat on Saturday in Cincinnati: “I’m sweating like I’ve just come out of a sauna.” Atletico Madrid faced 32°C in Pasadena and midfielder Marcos Llorente described the conditions as “terribly hot,” adding, “my toes were sore, my nails were hurting – it’s incredible.”

Chelsea’s campaign now hinges on their final Group D game against Tunisia’s ES Tunis following a 3-1 loss to Flamengo. A defeat would end their tournament. Avoiding it sets up a knockout clash, possibly with Bayern Munich, Benfica or Boca Juniors.

The team also faces personnel issues. Reece James is doubtful with illness and forward Nicolas Jackson is suspended after a red card, missing from Monday’s open session.

During that limited training, large cooling fans sprayed water on the players, shaded areas were used where possible, and iced drinks were widely distributed.

Defender Marc Cucurella said heat adaptation is difficult but added, “We know we have a job to do here, and we want to go far in the tournament.”