Enzo Maresca informed Chelsea forward Pedro Neto that the decision to play in Friday's Club World Cup quarterfinal against Palmeiras is entirely his own, following the tragic death of his close friend and Portugal teammate Diogo Jota.

Liverpool forward Diogo Jota, 28, and his brother André Silva died in a car crash on Wednesday evening in northern Spain. Jota had played alongside Neto at Wolverhampton Wanderers before joining Liverpool in 2020, and the duo recently won the UEFA Nations League with Portugal last month.

Neto skipped Chelsea's training session in Miami on Thursday morning after learning of Jota's death. Coach Maresca emphasized that there is no pressure on the player to participate in the match against Palmeiras in Philadelphia.

"Pedro is deeply saddened, perhaps even more than that," Maresca told reporters. "We are here to support Pedro during this difficult time. It's entirely his decision whether to play. I spoke with him this morning, and we stand by him fully. Whatever choice he makes is the right one.

"We will support him no matter what. Whether he steps onto the pitch tomorrow or not, our backing remains unwavering.

"This is a very sad day, and I'm struggling to find the words. The feeling is one of helplessness in such a situation. The only thing I can offer is my deepest condolences and love to Jota's family during this immense tragedy."

Chelsea defender Marc Cucurella echoed Maresca's sentiments, noting that the team has rallied to support Neto.

"He was upset in the morning, and it wasn't his finest moment," Cucurella said. "But we stayed united, and by the afternoon, he seemed a little improved.

"I told him that if he plays, he's destined to score. We hope to express our love and friendship by dedicating any goal to him. It's crucial that Pedro feels ready to play. Football takes a backseat in times like this, but tomorrow is a big day, and whatever decision is made will be the right one.

"Ultimately, football isn't the priority right now. What matters most is showing respect and all our love."