In a surprising turn of events, Chelsea have omitted goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic from their FIFA Club World Cup squad, despite the club’s failure to seal a deal for AC Milan’s Mike Maignan ahead of the tournament.

The decision, reported by The Telegraph, raises fresh doubts about Petrovic’s long-term future at Stamford Bridge.

Petrovic, 25, spent last season on loan at Strasbourg and was widely tipped to challenge for the No. 1 spot following Robert Sanchez’s underwhelming performances. However, Chelsea’s determination to sign a new first-choice goalkeeper this summer—coupled with Petrovic’s exclusion from the squad heading to the United States—suggests the Serbian may be on his way out.

He is not the only notable absentee. Other loanees from last season, including Raheem Sterling, Joao Felix, and Axel Disasi, have also been left out of the travelling squad, signalling a major shake-up under head coach Enzo Maresca.

With several clubs reportedly interested in acquiring Petrovic permanently, his priority is understood to be regular first-team football—something Chelsea may no longer be able to offer.

If a new goalkeeper arrives this summer, a departure seems increasingly likely.
Meanwhile, Chelsea’s squad for the Club World Cup features fresh faces and returning loanees. Brazilian midfielder Andrey Santos is back, while summer signings Liam Delap, Dario Essugo, and Mamadou Sarr are all included as the Blues look to make their mark on the global stage.

The omission of Petrovic may be a sign of things to come, as Chelsea continue to reshape their squad ahead of a pivotal 2025/26 campaign.