Chelsea’s fireworks at Club World Cup weren’t just for trophy celebrations. João Pedro has since spoken out for the first time after the ugly post-match fracas with PSG boss Luis Enrique that shocked the footballing world.
Pedro says he was only standing up for teammate Andrey Santos, while Enrique maintains that he was promoting peace. But the fallout from this brawl could be significant, especially if FIFA decides to involve itself.
João Pedro defends Santos amid chaos
The controversy started following Chelsea’s 3–0 victory as João Pedro saw the PSG players furiously surrounding Andrey Santos. “Like a good Brazilian, I went to protect a friend” Pedro said. His intervention turned sour when Luis Enrique seemed to grab him while in conversation.
Pedro was pushed during the melee and later told Brazilian media that PSG “don’t know how to lose.” The brawl added more fuel to an already boiling match, as the referee sent João Neves off and Cole Palmer scored twice and provided an assist. It was a filthy challenge, and though Pedro went on to discuss Chelsea’s success in the game, it was evident how he saw the alleged reaction as nothing more than aggravation.
Luis Enrique under fire, FIFA could act
Luis Enrique had his own take, saying that he intervened merely to “separate players” and de-escalated the moment by saying he was “foolish” to intercede. But television cameras caught a more aggressive confrontation, including the French media going to town on his conduct as “disgraceful”.
According to the reports, FIFA is now looking at the footage and may punish Enrique, with a possible touchline ban. PSG have also supported their manager, describing him as “respected and disciplined.” But with the video evidence multiplying, the fallout may just be starting.
From heroics on the field to mayhem off it, Chelsea’s victory at the Club World Cup finished in unforgettable style.
As featured on Chelseanews.com
