Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has made headlines after omitting four big-name players from his squad for the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup, set to kick off this weekend in the United States.
Notably absent from the traveling party are Raheem Sterling and João Félix, with the duo representing a combined transfer value of over £150 million.
Sterling, who endured a disappointing loan spell at Arsenal last season, will not feature in the prestigious tournament. Likewise, Felix—signed for £45 million and recently on loan at AC Milan—has been left out.
Also missing is defender Axel Disasi, who finished last season at Aston Villa, and goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic, despite expectations that he would play a key role after Chelsea failed in their pursuit of AC Milan’s Mike Maignan.
Chelsea are set to begin their Club World Cup campaign with a group stage clash against LAFC, followed by tough fixtures against Brazilian giants Flamengo and Tunisian champions Esperance.
