The 3-0 loss at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey on 13/7 was the 12th final in Enrique's club management career. The Spanish tactician had won all 11 previous finals, including the Copa del Rey in 2015, 2016, and 2017, the Spanish Super Cup in 2016, the Champions League in 2015, the former version of the Club World Cup in 2015 (with Barca), the Coupe de France in 2024 and 2025, the French Super Cup in 2024 and 2025, and the Champions League in 2025 (with PSG).

Manager Enrique looked dejected as he received the silver medal after the Club World Cup final on 13/7. Photo: Reuters

Enrique took charge of PSG in the summer of 2023, securing a domestic treble with Ligue 1, the Coupe de France, and the French Super Cup in his first season. In the 2024-2025 season, he not only replicated this feat but also led the Parisian club to their first Champions League title, crushing Inter Milan 5-0 in the final.

En route to the FIFA Club World Cup final, PSG continued their impressive form, scoring 16 goals and conceding only one, with resounding victories such as 4-0 against Atletico Madrid, Inter Miami, and Real Madrid.

However, the 55-year-old manager's team unexpectedly faltered against Chelsea. Between the 23rd and 30th minutes, they conceded two goals to Cole Palmer. In the 43rd minute, Joao Pedro chipped the ball over goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, sealing a 3-0 victory for Chelsea.

After the final, Enrique's actions further marred the occasion when he became involved in a scuffle between players. He allegedly pushed Joao Pedro in the neck and face, causing him to fall.

Before the loss to Chelsea, Enrique's only other final defeat was at the international level: Spain lost 2-1 to France in the 2021 Nations League final. In that match, Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring, but Karim Benzema and Kylian Mbappe led France to a comeback victory.

Key moments of the Club World Cup final, Chelsea 3-0 PSG.

Thanh Quy (according to L'Equipe)