Chelsea Struggles Training in Extreme Philadelphia Heat Ahead Club World Cup

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has described it as "impossible" to conduct normal training sessions due to a severe heatwave in Philadelphia, where temperatures have soared to around 37-38 degrees Celsius with high humidity, creating a challenging environment for the Club World Cup matches. The team has had to shorten training sessions drastically, focusing solely on game preparation while trying to conserve energy ahead of their crucial group stage match against ES Tunis. Despite the extreme conditions and health warnings issued locally, Chelsea must push hard after a defeat to Flamengo, with Maresca emphasizing the reality of the heat without making excuses. Measures such as industrial fans, cooling sprays, and shaded areas have been used to mitigate the impact of the heat on players, some of whom have also missed sessions due to illness or suspension. Similar concerns have been raised by other teams participating in the tournament, sparking debate about the safety of hosting matches during such extreme weather and the implications for next year’s World Cup in the United States. Maresca remains focused on winning the upcoming game to advance, acknowledging the difficulties but committing to the effort required under these harsh conditions.