Chelsea hoping Thomas Tuchel can make it to Club World Cup final

The German has been unable to link up with Chelsea in the United Arab Emirates after testing positive for Covid-19.

Tuchel watched Wednesday’s 1-0 win over Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal on television at home in London, but still hopes to be able to attend Saturday’s final against Palmeiras.

Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku scored the goal to put the Blues in the final

A negative Covid test stands between Tuchel and a rushed flight out to Abu Dhabi, but the Blues are still determined to give him every chance to attend the finale.

“We still hope that Thomas can come and join the group as soon as possible,” said Chelsea assistant coach Zsolt Low.

“We have 30 hours to the game. He follows the rules and protocols and there’s still a lot of time.

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“We hope he can come but if not we are well prepared. We have a lot of meetings, we talk about the game, we analyse the game and see what we can do better. We’re absolutely clear what to do better in the second game.

“Thomas will absolutely want to be here. The whole club wants that. We hope he can make it. We have 30 hours. Every test can be negative and with one he can fly and join the group.”

Chelsea would receive a notable lift should Tuchel be able to coach his squad in person before Saturday’s showdown with Sao Paolo side Palmeiras.

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