Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labeled Germán Cano a “FOOL” following the HORRIFIC injury he inflicted on Moisés Caicedo. The furious manager delivered a scathing speech and called on FIFA to suspend the Fluminense striker. Immediately after, the Argentine forward hit back with a response that left everyone stunned.

The FIFA Club World Cup semi-final featuring Chelsea and Fluminense has erupted into debate following a terrible injury sustained by Moisés Caicedo, reportedly resulting from a dangerous tackle by Fluminense forward Germán Cano.

Shortly after Chelsea secured a commanding 2-0 win, head coach Enzo Maresca was unrestrained during the post-game media session. Delivering an angry and emotionally intense address, the Italian boss openly referred to Cano as a “fool” and called on FIFA to issue an immediate ban on the Argentine attacker due to what he called a “cowardly and disgraceful tackle.”

“This isn’t football — it’s violence. Caicedo could be out for months. FIFA must act now, or they are complicit,” Maresca declared.

His remarks triggered widespread reaction throughout the football community, with online platforms quickly rallying around Caicedo, who had to be assisted off the pitch and is currently receiving additional medical assessment.

But the situation quickly escalated.

In a dramatic development, Germán Cano responded mere moments later, directly addressing Maresca’s statements. In a strong message shared through his official social media, Cano responded:

“When you play with passion, you risk everything. But calling me a fool? That’s cowardly from the sidelines.”

The striker denied any malicious intent and maintained the collision was “part of the game,” although video clips of the moment have stirred global discussion. While some back Cano’s spirited and forceful approach, others are urging FIFA to intervene.

The controversy has taken the spotlight away from what should have been a triumphant occasion for Chelsea, who progressed to the Club World Cup final with an impressive showing. However, with Caicedo potentially sidelined for the remainder of the campaign, the club must now contend with new hurdles both on and off the field.

As scrutiny increases on FIFA, attention turns to whether the organization will heed Maresca’s demand for accountability — or allow this intense moment to quietly disappear.

—