Chelsea vs. PSG: 7 players who could settle the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 final

The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 final, set for Sunday, at MetLife Stadium, promises a thrilling showdown between Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain, PSG. 

As the English Premier League heavyweights face off against the reigning European champions, the match will hinge on key individual performances and critical battles across the pitch. 

From defensive titans to midfield dynamos and attacking game-changers, here are seven players who could determine the outcome of this epic clash and decide who claims the coveted trophy.

Fresh off his transfer from Brighton, the 23-year-old Brazilian striker has hit the ground running at Chelsea. 

His sensational brace in the 2-0 semi-final victory over Fluminense showed his speed, skill, and lethal finishing. 

Pedro’s elusive movement and ability to exploit spaces make him a constant threat. If he can outmaneuver PSG’s defence, that has conceded just once led by compatriot Marquinhos, his clinical edge could fire Chelsea to their second Club World Cup title.

At 31, PSG’s captain and all-time appearance record holder remains a defensive colossus. His blend of technical finesse and inspiring leadership has anchored PSG’s backline, which conceded just once in six tournament games. 

Facing Chelsea’s red-hot Pedro, Marquinhos will need to leverage his experience and composure to keep the Blues’ attack at bay. 

A strong performance could tilt the scales in PSG’s favour and secure their first Club World Cup crown.

The 24-year-old Argentine midfielder is Chelsea’s heartbeat, combining relentless energy with pinpoint passing. 

His tournament-leading three assists highlight his ability to create game-changing moments in the final third. 

Fernández’s competitive fire will be crucial in the midfield battle against PSG’s Vitinha. If he can dictate the tempo and outwork his counterpart, Chelsea could seize control of the game.

After missing the group stage due to injury, the 28-year-old French winger has been electric in the knockouts, scoring in PSG’s 2-0 win over Bayern Munich and their 4-0 rout of Real Madrid. 

Dembélé’s lightning pace and dazzling dribbling make him a nightmare for defenders, with Chelsea defenders the next to experience the in-form Frenchman. 

As a Ballon d’Or contender, his ability to unlock Chelsea’s backline could be PSG’s key to victory.

Widely regarded as one of the world’s best goalkeepers, the 26-year-old Italian has been a fortress for PSG, conceding just one goal in six Club World Cup matches. 

Donnarumma’s commanding presence and clutch shot-stopping ability will be tested by Chelsea’s potent attack, led by Pedro and Cole Palmer. 

A trademark heroic performance that has already produced five clean sheets in six matches could ensure PSG’s defense holds firm and clinch the title.

The 25-year-old Portuguese midfielder has been a standout, covering a tournament-high 69.4km and orchestrating PSG’s play with incisive passing. 

With one goal and two assists, Vitinha’s smart positioning and tireless work rate allow PSG to dominate possession and neutralise attacks. 

His midfield synergy with the duo of Joao Neves and Fabian Ruiz will be decisive again. Win the midfield battle again, and PSG could control the game’s rhythm.

Chelsea’s 26-year-old centre-back has been a rock in 2025, building on his Crystal Palace loan to shine in the Club World Cup. 

His flawless 100% pass completion (54/54) in the 2-0 semi-final win over Fluminense highlighted his composure and defensive strength. 

Facing PSG’s Dembélé and Khivcha Kvaratskhelia, Chalobah’s ability to stay disciplined and distribute effectively will be critical to keeping Chelsea’s defense solid.

These seven stars will define the key battles in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 final. Pedro and Dembélé bring the attacking spark, while Marquinhos and Chalobah anchor their defenses. 

Fernández and Vitinha will vie for midfield dominance, and Donnarumma’s heroics could be the deciding factor. 

With PSG the obvious favourites to take the win, Chelsea’s stars must outshine their counterparts to pull off a historic upset.