Photos: Two Chelsea players absent from Sunday’s group training ahead of CWC semifinal
Chelsea’s preparations for the Club World Cup in Abu Dhabi have already begun, but two members of the traveling squad did not participate in the first day of group training.
The Blues traveled to Abu Dhabi with 23 players, including Reece James, who is still doubtful for Wednesday’s semifinal and Saturday’s final due to a hamstring injury.
James continued his rehabilitation process on Sunday afternoon, but he had to work separately from the rest of the team, according to the club’s official website.
Mason Mount, who suffered a minor injury in Saturday’s FA Cup extra-time win over Plymouth Argyle, was the other player who did not participate in training.
Fortunately, Hakim Ziyech and Cesar Azpilicueta, who were also experiencing similar issues, were able to participate in the training.
Thiago Silva and Christian Pulisic, both of whom had recently returned from international duty with Brazil and the United States, were also present, as was N’Golo Kante, who was also absent on Saturday.
Thomas Tuchel’s coaching staff led the session because the German was unable to travel to the UAE to self-isolate after testing positive for Covid-19.
Chelsea has previously stated that Edouard Mendy will be joining the squad soon. The goalkeeper will still face Senegal in the Africa Cup of Nations final later today.
As a result, Kepa Arrizabalaga, who has excelled in Mendy’s absence, will most likely be in goal for the semifinal match against the winners of today’s match between Al Ahli and Al Jazira.
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Photos: Two Chelsea players absent from Sunday’s group training ahead of CWC semifinal
