Several Premier League clubs have left high-profile players out of their UEFA Champions League squads, raising eyebrows among fans and analysts alike.
Arsenal have opted to leave out Brazilian striker Gabriel Jesus, instead promoting youngster Max Dowman into their European roster. Jesus, a key figure in the Gunners’ attack, missing out on Europe’s elite competition will undoubtedly be a major talking point in North London.
Tottenham Hotspur’s decision was perhaps the most shocking, as they excluded multiple first-team stars including Mathys Tel, Yves Bissouma, James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski, Kota Takai, and Radu Drăgușin. Such a large-scale omission of established players suggests manager Ange Postecoglou may be forced to prioritize squad balance and homegrown quotas, but it still leaves Spurs fans puzzled about the club’s European ambitions.
Liverpool also raised eyebrows, leaving out Italian international Federico Chiesa, who only joined the club this summer. Instead, academy prospect Ngumoha was given a spot in the squad. Chiesa’s exclusion could be tactical, but it will certainly fuel debate about his role under Arne Slot.
Meanwhile, Chelsea have chosen to exclude Argentine midfielder Facundo Buonanotte, making room for rising star Estevão. With the Blues undergoing yet another rebuild under Enzo Maresca, this decision reflects their long-term focus on youth development.