Thomas
Tuchel has arrived in Abu Dhabi to hand Chelsea a major boost ahead of
Saturday's Club World Cup final against Palmeiras.
The Blues' German coach had been forced to miss their early Club World Cup
endeavours after testing positive for Covid-19 and going into
self-isolation.
The 48-year-old watched Wednesday's 1-0 semi-final win over Al Hilal on
television at home in London, but has now made it to the United Arab
Emirates in time for Saturday's showpiece showdown.
Tuchel is always an influential touchline presence and his arrival will
doubtless hand Chelsea a big lift.
Italy midfielder Jorginho admitted earlier on Friday Chelsea would receive a
boost were Tuchel able to arrive and take charge of the Blues.
Asked if Tuchel's presence would make a difference, Jorginho said: "Of
course it gives you more, there's more energy in the changing room.
"It'll be really important for us if he could be here."
Chelsea will receive a notable lift from Tuchel's ability to coach his squad
in person for Saturday's showdown with Sao Paolo side Palmeiras.
The Blues have already received one boost, however, in the shape of in-form
goalkeeper Edouard Mendy's return to the squad.
The 29-year-old is back in the Chelsea camp after helping Senegal claim
Africa Cup of Nations glory, and Chelsea assistant coach Zsolt Low admitted
Mendy has already had a big impact on his team-mates.
The Blues will have to make a call on whether to continue with an upbeat and
confident Kepa Arrizabalaga in goal after his saves ensured their place in
Saturday's final, or restore established number one Mendy.
But for now, Mendy's mere presence in the squad has lifted Chelsea's general
mood.
"We're very proud of Edou, the whole squad was happy he won the Africa cup,"
said Low.
"He arrived in a very good mood. He always has a big smile on his face, he's
very important to the group and he gives the group a lot of energy.
"He was a little tired the first day, needed recovery and a good sleep, but
he is fully involved in training.
"We're very happy that he's healthy and absolutely in good shape with good
experience behind him. He's ready to play the game.
"We're very happy with both goalkeepers. It's a comfortable situation to
have both goalkeepers like this. Now Edou is back he is fresh, we have to
take the decision tonight and we'll talk to Thomas about it.
"The final decision will be some hours before the game but if we decide for
one or the other, the one on the bench has nothing to be worried or sad
about.
"Both goalkeepers had a big performance in last weeks. This is why it's a
question just for this game. Tonight or latest tomorrow."
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