Chelsea Football Club, one of the most storied institutions in English football, is celebrating its 120th season in 2025–26. Under the stewardship of head coach Enzo Maresca, the Blues have solidified their position as a top-tier Premier League side, finishing fourth in the 2024–25 season and securing a spot in the UEFA Champions League for 2025–26.
The club’s recent success in the UEFA Conference League, coupled with their participation in the expanded FIFA Club World Cup, has kept Chelsea’s players in the global spotlight. This article dives deep into the latest information about Chelsea F.C.’s players, addressing fan questions trending on YouTube and Google, and providing an engaging, informative look at the squad, transfers, and more.
The 2025–26 Chelsea Squad: An Overview
Chelsea’s squad for the 2025–26 season is a blend of seasoned internationals, homegrown talents, and exciting new signings. The team’s depth has been bolstered by strategic recruitment and the return of loanees, positioning Chelsea as contenders across multiple competitions, including the Premier League, FA Cup, EFL Cup, UEFA Champions League, and the FIFA Club World Cup. Below is a snapshot of the squad as of June 2025, based on the latest updates from official sources like the Premier League and Chelsea’s website.
Goalkeepers
Filip Jörgensen: A standout performer in the UEFA Conference League, Jörgensen has emerged as a reliable first-choice goalkeeper. His inclusion in the tournament’s team of the season highlights his growing stature.
Mike Penders: A new signing in the summer of 2025, Penders adds depth to the goalkeeping unit and is seen as a long-term prospect.
Djordje Petrovic: Returning to the squad after a loan spell, Petrovic provides competition for the No. 1 spot.
Defenders
Tosin Adarabioyo: A key figure in Chelsea’s Conference League triumph, Adarabioyo’s defensive solidity earned him a spot in the tournament’s team of the season.
Aaron Anselmino: The young Argentine joined the squad for the Club World Cup, showcasing Chelsea’s investment in defensive prospects.
Mamadou Sarr: Signed in the summer of 2025, Sarr is a versatile defender expected to develop under Maresca’s guidance.
Wesley Fofana: Despite injury concerns, Fofana remains a crucial part of the backline when fit, though he was absent from the Club World Cup squad.
Reece James: The homegrown captain, known for his attacking prowess from right-back, continues to lead the team when available, though injuries have been a challenge.
Midfielders
Cole Palmer (No. 10): The talisman of Chelsea’s 2024–25 season, Palmer was named Premier League Player of the Month for September 2024 and Man of the Match in the Conference League final, where he provided two assists. His switch to the No. 10 shirt for 2025–26 underscores his central role.
Enzo Fernández: A World Cup winner with Argentina, Fernández’s playmaking earned him a place in the Conference League team of the season. He joined the Club World Cup squad in the U.S.
Moisés Caicedo: The Ecuadorian midfielder has been a mainstay, offering defensive stability and energy. He also joined the Club World Cup squad.
Andrey Santos: Returning from a successful loan at Strasbourg, Santos is poised to break into the first team.
Dario Essugo: Signed from Sporting Lisbon for £18 million, Essugo adds dynamism to the midfield.
Roméo Lavia: The young Belgian has shown promise when fit, adding depth to the midfield.
Kendry Páez: The 18-year-old Ecuadorian, signed for £17.5 million in 2023, is training with the squad in the U.S. but is not registered for Club World Cup group stages. He’s expected to join Strasbourg on loan to acclimate to European football.
Forwards
Liam Delap: A summer 2025 signing, Delap has impressed with his physicality and goal-scoring instincts. His comments on the “high quality” at Chelsea reflect the squad’s competitive environment.
Christopher Nkunku: Despite transfer rumors, Nkunku was included in the Club World Cup squad, suggesting he remains part of Maresca’s plans.
Estevão Willian: Set to join after the Club World Cup, the Brazilian wonderkid is one of the most anticipated arrivals at Stamford Bridge.
Donnell McNeilly: An Under-21s forward offered a contract, McNeilly represents Chelsea’s commitment to youth development.
Key Departures and Released Players
At the end of the 2024–25 season, Chelsea announced several departures as contracts expired on June 30, 2025. These moves reflect the club’s ongoing squad optimization under Maresca.
Lucas Bergström: The Finnish goalkeeper, who joined from Turun Palloseura in 2018, left after six years. He was a regular in the Academy and was named on the bench for the senior team, including the Conference League final victory over Real Betis.
Eddie Beach: The Wales Under-21 international, signed from Southampton in 2022, departed after loan spells, most recently at Crawley Town.
Luke Campbell: A regular for the Under-18s during their 2023–24 Premier League southern title win, Campbell left after a loan at Hendon.
Dylan Williams: Permanently transferred to Burton Albion in May 2025.
Marcell Washington: The Under-18s defender’s scholarship contract ended.
Chelsea thanked all departing players for their contributions and wished them well in their future careers. The club also confirmed that further contract updates would be announced as needed.
Chelsea’s FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Campaign
Chelsea’s participation in the FIFA Club World Cup, held in the United States from June to July 2025, has been a major talking point. The expanded 32-team tournament sees Chelsea competing in Group D against Los Angeles FC, Flamengo, and ES Tunis. The squad, confirmed on June 11, 2025, includes four summer signings Liam Delap, Dario Essugo, Mamadou Sarr, and Mike Penders along with returning players like Moisés Caicedo, Enzo Fernández, Aaron Anselmino, and Andrey Santos.
Enzo Maresca’s Impact on the Squad
Enzo Maresca, appointed head coach on July 1, 2024, has transformed Chelsea’s playing style and squad dynamics. His five-year contract, with an option for an additional year, reflects the club’s long-term faith in his vision. Maresca’s achievements in 2024–25, including a fourth-place Premier League finish, a Conference League title, and Manager of the Month for September 2024, have cemented his authority.
Tactical Philosophy
Maresca’s possession-based, high-pressing style has suited players like Cole Palmer, Enzo Fernández, and Moisés Caicedo. His ability to integrate young talents like Andrey Santos and Liam Delap while managing veterans like Christopher Nkunku showcases his versatility. Maresca’s emphasis on the Conference League as “the best competition in the world” motivated his players to achieve a historic clean sweep of European trophies.
Chelsea’s Achievements and Player Contributions
Chelsea’s 2024–25 season was a triumph, with key players driving the club to new heights. The 4–1 victory over Real Betis in the UEFA Conference League final on May 28, 2025, made Chelsea the first club to win all five major European competitions. Cole Palmer’s two assists and Man of the Match performance were pivotal, while Filip Jörgensen, Tosin Adarabioyo, and Enzo Fernández’s inclusion in the team of the tournament showcased their impact.
The fourth-place Premier League finish, secured with a win over Nottingham Forest on May 25, 2025, ensured Champions League qualification. Palmer’s consistent brilliance and Maresca’s tactical acumen were instrumental. The club’s long-term partnership with Dubai-based DAMAC, announced on April 30, 2025, as a front-of-shirt sponsor, added financial stability.
The CFC Awards 2025: Celebrating Player Excellence
The CFC Awards 2025, held on May 4, 2025, at Grosvenor House in London, celebrated Chelsea’s 120th anniversary and the 2024–25 season’s successes. Fans voted for Player of the Season, with Cole Palmer a likely favorite given his accolades. The event, following a Premier League match against Liverpool, highlighted the club’s rich history and the contributions of its players.
FAQs
How many international players does Chelsea have?
Chelsea boasts a diverse squad with players from several countries including England, France, Brazil, Germany, Ivory Coast, and more. Key internationals include Raheem Sterling (England), Wesley Fofana (France), and Enzo Fernández (Argentina).
How does Chelsea’s squad compare to other Premier League teams?
Chelsea’s squad is a competitive blend of youth and experience, aiming to challenge top rivals like Manchester City, Liverpool, and Arsenal. With recent investments in young talents and proven stars, Chelsea looks to regain its status as a Premier League powerhouse.
Why Were Certain Players Left Out of the Club World Cup Squad?
The omission of Djordje Petrovic, João Félix, Raheem Sterling, Axel Disasi, and Ben Chilwell from the Club World Cup squad sparked debate. Posts on X suggest these exclusions may be due to tactical decisions, transfer considerations, or injury concerns (e.g., Fofana). Kendry Páez and Kaiden Amougou’s absence is linked to planned loans to Strasbourg. Maresca’s focus on a compact, versatile squad likely drove these choices.
What Are Chelsea’s Transfer Plans for 2025–26?
Chelsea’s interest in Victor Osimhen, Jamie Gittens, and Tomás Araújo points to a focus on a striker, winger, and center-back. The potential sale of Kepa Arrizabalaga to Arsenal could fund further moves. Fans are also curious about Kendry Páez’s integration and Estevão Willian’s impact.
How Are Chelsea’s Young Players Performing?
Youngsters like Andrey Santos, Liam Delap, and Kendry Páez are generating buzz. Santos’ loan success and Delap’s early contributions highlight their potential. Páez’s training with the senior squad is a step toward his 2026 integration. Donnell McNeilly’s contract offer underscores Chelsea’s youth pipeline.
In Summary
Chelsea F.C.’s players in 2025 are a dynamic mix of global stars, emerging talents, and strategic signings. From Cole Palmer’s brilliance to Enzo Maresca’s transformative coaching, the Blues are poised for a thrilling 2025–26 season. By addressing fan questions and leveraging the latest information, this article offers a comprehensive look at the squad, their achievements, and what lies ahead. Whether you’re cheering at Stamford Bridge or watching from afar, Chelsea’s players are ready to write the next chapter in the club’s illustrious history.
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