Chelsea embark on a new frontier this June, stepping into FIFA’s inaugural 32-team Club World Cup.
Qualification came through their 2021 Champions League triumph, and the Blues now stand among the world’s elite. Enzo Maresca’s 28-man squad features fresh arrivals Mike Penders, Mamadou Sarr, Dario Essugo, and Liam Delap, each ready to leave a mark.
Their journey begins in Atlanta against Los Angeles FC on June 16, before clashes with Flamengo and ES Tunis in Philadelphia.
Absent are high-profile names: Jordan Sancho’s loan ends, Estevão Willian remains with Palmeiras until after the group stage, and wonderkid Kendry Paez is set for a Strasbourg loan. Joao Felix, stripped of his No.14, has been loaned to AC Milan after failing to convince.
Goalkeeper Dorde Petrović withdrew to focus on his future, with Gaga Slonina taking his place. Mykhailo Mudryk is sidelined amid a doping case, while Axel Disasi, Carney Chukwuemeka, Raheem Sterling, and Ben Chilwell remain out of the squad.
Beyond the tournament, Arsenal’s transfer radar is fixed on Kepa Arrizabalaga.
The Spaniard, once the world’s most expensive goalkeeper at £72 million, could cross London for just £5 million after a loan at Bournemouth. If completed, he joins a long list of players making the west-to-north switch.
For Chelsea, the Club World Cup offers more than silverware—it’s a statement.
For some, it’s a debut on the global stage. For others, a final chance to prove their worth before a summer of ruthless decisions.