Chelsea have officially confirmed that both João Félix and Raheem Sterling will not feature in their squad for the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup in the United States. As preparations intensify for the showpiece event, the Blues have made strategic squad decisions that also signal potential exits for both players in the ongoing transfer window. The club hierarchy, alongside head coach Enzo Maresca, is actively exploring market options to resolve the uncertain futures of these two high-profile attackers.
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Big Changes as Chelsea Plot Future Path
In a clear indication of change, Chelsea recently handed the No.14 shirt—previously worn by Félix—to new arrival Dário Essugo. The talented teenager, signed from Sporting CP, will join the senior setup for the Club World Cup, offering midfield depth and competition for Moisés Caicedo. This seemingly symbolic gesture underscores the shifting priorities at Stamford Bridge, as Félix looks set to depart for a third time.
Félix’s Chelsea tenure has been turbulent. After joining permanently from Atlético Madrid in 2024, following an earlier loan spell in 2023, his contribution has failed to match the club’s substantial investment. Despite Chelsea spending £45 million for his signature, the Portuguese international managed only three league starts before being loaned to AC Milan mid-season. Félix’s limited impact—one goal and one assist in 12 appearances—saw him relegated to Europa Conference League duties, often playing second fiddle to Cole Palmer and Jadon Sancho.
The absence of any reference to Félix in Chelsea’s announcement regarding Essugo’s shirt number further hints that the club is working diligently on potential solutions—be it a permanent sale or another loan arrangement.
Sterling’s Struggles Continue Amid Exit Plans
Raheem Sterling’s exclusion from the squad marks another chapter in his difficult Chelsea career. Having arrived from Manchester City in 2022, Sterling found himself out of favor under Maresca’s leadership, leading to a loan move to Arsenal last season.
Despite sporadic flashes of his former brilliance, Sterling could not cement a permanent role in Chelsea’s long-term plans. The decision to omit him from the Club World Cup party signals that Chelsea’s management is actively working on transfer resolutions for the England international as well.
High Turnover Signals New Era at Stamford Bridge
Chelsea’s approach under the Todd Boehly-Clearlake Capital regime has been defined by heavy player turnover, bold investments, and calculated risk-taking. The inclusion of signings like Liam Delap, Mamadou Sarr, and Essugo in the Club World Cup squad illustrates the club’s commitment to building a younger, dynamic side under Maresca. Delap, a promising forward snapped up from Ipswich Town, will now represent Chelsea in the USA rather than England at the U21 European Championship, further emphasizing Chelsea’s forward-looking strategy.
Meanwhile, other senior players such as Axel Disasi—who spent part of the season on loan at Aston Villa—and Ben Chilwell were also omitted. The club continues to reshape its squad with an eye on the future, even as speculation mounts regarding Christopher Nkunku’s future following his inclusion in the travelling group.
Focus Shifts to Club World Cup Challenge
Chelsea will begin their Club World Cup campaign against Mexican side Club León in Atlanta on June 16. With fresh additions and rising talents filling the squad, the Blues aim to compete fiercely despite notable absentees.
Enzo Maresca’s men will hope the combination of established stars and emerging names can forge a successful run at the tournament, all while the club continues to work on solutions for players on the fringes like Félix and Sterling.
Chelsea’s Club World Cup 2025 Squad
- Goalkeepers: Robert Sánchez, Filip Jorgensen, Mike Penders, Gabriel Slonina
- Defenders: Marc Cucurella, Tosin Adarabioyo, Benoît Badiashile, Levi Colwill, Mamadou Sarr, Trevoh Chalobah, Reece James, Malo Gusto, Aaron Anselmino, Josh Acheampong
- Midfielders: Moisés Caicedo, Andrey Santos, Romeo Lavia, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Dário Essugo, Enzo Fernández
- Forwards: Pedro Neto, Liam Delap, Cole Palmer, Noni Madueke, Nicolas Jackson, Christopher Nkunku, Tyrique George, Marc Guiu
FAQs
Why are Félix and Sterling not in Chelsea’s Club World Cup squad?
Chelsea are seeking transfer solutions for both after disappointing spells.
What does Essugo getting Félix’s shirt number mean?
It signals Chelsea’s intention to move on from Félix permanently.
Where did Félix play after joining Chelsea?
He spent the second half of the season on loan at AC Milan.
What happened to Raheem Sterling at Chelsea?
Sterling was loaned to Arsenal last season after falling out of favor.
Who are Chelsea’s key new faces for the Club World Cup?
Liam Delap, Mamadou Sarr, and Dário Essugo headline the new arrivals.
