Chelsea have officially revealed their 23-man squad for the pivotal Champions League away match against Napoli on Thursday, 29 January 2026. Manager Liam Rosenior has selected his strongest available lineup for this high-stakes trip to Italy.
Fans finally received the news they were eagerly awaiting: midfield maestro Cole Palmer is back in the squad and will travel to Naples. His return is a major boost for Chelsea’s attacking options, as the Blues look to secure the points needed for automatic qualification to the Round of 16.
Cole Palmer’s Return Provides Vital Boost
The inclusion of Cole Palmer is a significant lift for Chelsea’s offensive unit. Known for his creativity and vision, Palmer is expected to be a key figure in unlocking Napoli’s well-organized defense.
Palmer had missed recent matches against Pafos and Crystal Palace due to a thigh issue, but he has now recovered in time for this crucial European encounter.
Rosenior also used the squad announcement to quash speculation about Palmer’s future, insisting that the star remains fully focused on Chelsea.
“There’s no reason to entertain any talk about him leaving,” Rosenior told reporters, reassuring supporters.
Key Absences: Lavia and Others
Despite Palmer’s return, Chelsea will not travel with a completely full-strength squad. Some important players remain in London for fitness and recovery purposes.
Midfielder Romeo Lavia will stay behind to continue regaining full match fitness following a lengthy injury spell.
In addition to Lavia, Levi Colwill and Tosin Adarabioyo are missing from the squad, with young midfielder Dario Essugo also left out of the trip.
On a positive note, goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen is fully fit and included in the traveling party, ready to compete for a spot between the posts.
The Stakes: Avoiding the Champions League Play-Off
Chelsea currently sit precariously at the edge of the top-eight in their group, making a victory in Naples essential to secure automatic progression.
Rosenior is determined to avoid the fatigue and disruption of a play-off route, which could hinder preparation time and training opportunities for his team.
“It’s crucial to avoid the play-offs. It allows us to maximize training days and prepare properly,” Rosenior explained earlier this month.
“Especially as a new manager, having consistent training days to instill ideas is important. But above all, the priority is qualification.”
Full Chelsea Squad for Napoli
Goalkeepers: Filip Jorgensen, Robert Sanchez, Freddy Bernal, Max Merrick
Defenders: Josh Acheampong, Benoit Badiashile, Trevoh Chalobah, Marc Cucurella, Wesley Fofana, Malo Gusto, Jorrel Hato, Reece James
Midfielders: Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez, Andrey Santos
Forwards: Liam Delap, Alejandro Garnacho, Tyrique George, Jamie Gittens, Marc Guiu, Pedro Neto, Joao Pedro, Cole Palmer, Estevao Willian
Chelsea now face a critical test in Naples, with Palmer’s return providing a welcome spark, while Rosenior must navigate the challenge of integrating his squad efficiently to secure a direct path to the knockout stages.
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