Why is Cole Palmer absent from Chelsea's Conference League squad?
What's the story
Enzo Maresca, the head coach of Chelsea, has made a surprising decision to exclude Cole Palmer, Wesley Fofana and Romeo Lavia from the club's UEFA Conference League squad.
This unexpected move has raised several questions among fans and pundits alike.
The trio's omission is particularly surprising given their significant contributions to the team in recent times.
This is also seen as a bold move by Maresca, who joined Chelsea as manager in the summer.
Strategy
Maresca's strategic move for Chelsea's domestic success
The Blues will not call up the trio for the league phase of the competition.
The decision was made for 'load management' reasons as Chelsea are set to be involved in several competitions.
Maresca's decision to leave out Palmer, Fofana and Lavia is part of a larger strategy aimed at ensuring Chelsea's success in domestic competitions.
Maresca believes that by resting these key players during the Europa League Conference, they will be better prepared.
Squad
Chelsea's Conference League squad
Goalkeepers: Robert Sanchez, Filip Jorgensen, Lucas Bergstrom.
Defenders: Axel Disasi, Marc Cucurella, Tosin Adarabioyo, Benoit Badiashile, Reece James, Malo Gusto, Renato Veiga, Enzo Fernandez, Noni Madueke, Carney Chukwuemeka, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Moises Caicedo, Cesare Casadei
Forwards: Pedro Neto, Mykhailo Mudryk, Joao Felix, Nicolas Jackson, Christopher Nkunku, Jadon Sancho, Marc Guiu.
Palmer
Palmer has made 50 appearances for Chelsea
Palmer clocked 25 goals and made 15 assists in 45 appearances during his first season at Chelsea.
He was involved in 33 goals Premier League goals. He scored 22 goals and made 11 assists from 33 appearances.
And now, with his four assists and a goal in 2024-25 season, he is involved in 45 goals for the Blues.
He completed 50 appearances for Chelsea in all competitions over the weekend.
Details
Conference League: Key details of Chelsea
Chelsea were included in Pot 1 for the league phase draw of the Conference League. The new format was introduced as part of the changes for this season's revamped competition.
The top eight of the total 36 sides will progress directly to the last 16, and a further 16 sides face off in the play-offs to join them.
Fixtures: Chelsea vs Gent, Heidenheim vs Chelsea, Astana vs Chelsea, Chelsea vs Shamrock Rovers, Panathinaikos vs Chelsea, Chelsea vs Noah.