The much-anticipated final of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup is fast approaching, with Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain set to face off in a headline clash that has captivated the footballing world. 

Taking place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, this monumental fixture is expected to draw global attention from fans and analysts alike.

Mansion Sports presents a detailed preview of the predicted line-ups for this all-European showdown, offering insight into the players who could define the final and potentially write themselves into football history.

A Clash of European Titans in the 2025 Club World Cup Final

The meeting between Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain marks a fascinating culmination to this year's FIFA Club World Cup, offering a rare final featuring two of Europe’s elite clubs. 

Chelsea enters the final as the reigning UEFA Conference League champions, while PSG arrives on the back of a triumphant UEFA Champions League campaign.

These two footballing powerhouses approach the game from vastly different perspectives—varying in terms of tactical philosophy, experience, and squad composition. 

Paris Saint-Germain are widely seen as favorites after a dominant performance in the semi-final, where they dismantled Real Madrid with authority.

Chelsea, however, have earned their spot with resilience and youthful energy, overcoming Brazilian side Fluminense with a solid showing. 

Notably, emerging forward João Pedro starred with a brace against his former club, offering a glimpse of the talent Chelsea will rely on in the final.

While PSG may hold the edge on paper, finals are often unpredictable. High-pressure environments such as these tend to level the playing field, with both clubs expected to depend heavily on their tactical discipline and collective strength in pursuit of global glory.

Projected Starting XIs for the 2025 Final

Both Enzo Maresca and Luis Enrique face important selection decisions ahead of the final. With a congested fixture list and the physical demands on several key players, tactical clarity and squad depth will be crucial in determining who starts.

Chelsea (4-3-3 formation)

• Goalkeeper: Robert Sánchez
• Defenders: Malo Gusto, Trevoh Chalobah, Tosin Adarabioyo, Marc Cucurella
• Midfielders: Cole Palmer, Moisés Caicedo, Enzo Fernández
• Forwards: Christopher Nkunku, João Pedro, Ângelo Gabriel Neto

Manager Enzo Maresca is expected to once again place his trust in João Pedro, whose standout performance in the semi-final has earned him a probable place in the starting XI. Despite lingering fitness concerns around Caicedo, his role in Chelsea’s midfield trio remains crucial alongside Palmer and Fernández.

Paris Saint-Germain (4-3-3 formation)

• Goalkeeper: Gianluigi Donnarumma
• Defenders: Achraf Hakimi, Marquinhos, Lucas Beraldo, Nuno Mendes
• Midfielders: Manuel Ugarte or Neves, Vitinha, Fabián Ruiz 
• Forwards: Bradley Barcola or Désiré Doué, Ousmane Dembélé, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia

Luis Enrique’s PSG squad boasts a dynamic blend of youth and experience. Ousmane Dembélé will lead the offensive charge, supported by the creative flair of Kvaratskhelia and the versatility of Vitinha in midfield. At the back, veteran Marquinhos offers leadership and stability, flanked by the explosive full-backs Hakimi and Mendes.

Tactical Battles and Key Influencers

Luis Enrique is expected to maintain his commitment to an aggressive, high-tempo attacking style, which proved decisive against Real Madrid. 

The pace and width provided by Hakimi and Mendes will be instrumental in breaking down Chelsea’s backline, which continues to gel under Maresca’s direction.

For Chelsea, discipline and patience will be essential. Cole Palmer’s vision and technique will be central in orchestrating the build-up from midfield, creating openings for the front three.

Should Nkunku and Pedro successfully exploit the spaces between PSG’s defensive lines, Chelsea’s attacking threat could pose serious problems.

Who Is Better Prepared to Claim the World Title?

Beyond tactics and formations, this final will test the mental strength and momentum of both sides. PSG enters the match full of confidence after a resounding semi-final victory, but Chelsea should not be underestimated. 

With a youthful squad, a reshaped team dynamic, and a manager eager to prove his mettle on the global stage, the London club brings unpredictability and energy that could prove decisive.

João Pedro may once again emerge as the game-changer for Chelsea, while Dembélé will be aiming to solidify his status as one of Europe’s top forwards—potentially staking a claim for individual accolades such as the Ballon d'Or.

Conclusion

The central question remains: who will lift the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup trophy? Will PSG confirm their status as Europe’s and now the world’s dominant force, or will Chelsea surprise the world with a spirited performance powered by youth and tactical innovation?

Regardless of the outcome, the predicted line-ups for Chelsea vs PSG in this historic final suggest a thrilling contest filled with elite talent and strategic nuance. This is more than just a football match—it’s a battle of prestige, style, and ambition on the grandest stage.