Chelsea have submitted their 25-man squad for the Europa Conference League, with the notable omissions of Cole Palmer, Wesley Fofana and Romeo Lavia. The decision to leave the trio out has been made keeping load management in mind.
The Blues are aware that the season might go on till July 2025 due to the FIFA Club World Cup, and are taking no chances by overplaying Palmer. Due to Lavia’s recent injury and Fofana’s return after a season-long absence, they have been left out as well.
Chelsea submit 25-man squad for Europa Conference League with Palmer out
Chelsea squad for the UEFA conference league next stage. Not having Cole palmer and Lavia shouldn't be a problem. This squad is good to go in the conference league ✅ pic.twitter.com/m0mKO03Rgh
— Chelsea Miracle (@ChelseaMiracle_) September 5, 2024
While fans might be sent into panic mode given that Chelsea have left their best player out for the tournament, it is simply a case of rotating the squad. The Blues will be able to submit a new squad when the knockoiy stages start, and the Ballon d’or nominee will probably be included there.
It would allow him to play eight less games this season, with the Club World Cup waiting at the end of it. As a result, minimising the risk of injury due to overload.
Chelsea have more than enough talent to make it through to the knockout stages, even without Palmer. But it remains to be seen if they can step up in the England international’s absence.
