The absences of Ruben Loftus-Cheek and N'Golo Kante were no doubt the standout takeaways from Chelsea's confirmed pre-season tour squad list. The duo have been unable to make the trip due to their vaccination status, in a blow to the squad ahead of the start of the Premier League season in four weeks time.
Ian Maatsen and Dujon Sterling were also missing from the 29-man squad in the USA, while Armando Broja is set to join up with his teammates next week. However, it is perhaps the names that did make the list that should prompt conversation.
Michy Batshuayi was signed for £33 million and has undergone five loan spells while with the Blues. Kenedy has taken part in loans at Watford, Newcastle, Getafe, Granada and Flamengo, and could rarely break into Chelsea's XI upon his return in January, even with the Blues being short at left back. It was a similar story for Ross Barkley last term, with the former Everton star only making one Premier League appearance in 2022.
