Chelsea's shocking Team Selection ahead of the Conference League

Chelsea  has announced their 27-player squad for their Conference League journey, and Cole Palmer is not part of it.

The Blues have advanced to the group stage of the European competition after defeating Servette 3-2 over two matches in the play-off round. They secured a 2-0 victory at Stamford Bridge in the first leg but suffered a 2-1 loss in the subsequent match a week later. Nonetheless, this result was sufficient for them to progress.

The newly-named league phase, featuring a different format compared to previous seasons, pits them against tough opponents such as Gent, Panathinaikos, Noah, Heidenheim, Astana, and Shamrock Rovers. Chelsea had to finalize their squad for UEFA by midnight last night (Wednesday), comprising the players eligible for their first match against Gent and potential inclusion up to the final, if they advance.

Head coach Enzo Maresca will be unable to rely on Palmer throughout the Conference League campaign, as the influential Englishman has been omitted from the squad entirely. This news comes alongside the absence of key players Romeo.

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Reason to bench Palmer

The decision not to include Palmer , Romeo Lavia, and Wesley Fofana is based on the need for load management and football considerations, which London understands. Chelsea is preparing to compete in five different competitions in the second month of the season. Marcus Bettinelli was initially in the play-off squad but has been replaced by Bergstrom. Additionally, new signings Joao Felix, Pedro Neto, and Jadon Sancho have been included in the squad.

The ample size of Chelsea's squad made it inevitable for such situations to arise, presenting Maresca with significant decisions to consider for the European squad. Only time will reveal the outcome of his choices.

Update from Fabrizio Romano

Famous football transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano Posted on his X - 

'Chelsea confirms the squad for the next stage of the Conference League. Wesley Fofana, Cole Palmer and also Romeo Lavia have been left out. The decision was taken due to load management as Chelsea's season could go on until July 2025 with the Club’s World Cup, too.'

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