Djordje Petrovic’s Shock Withdrawal Request from Chelsea’s Club World Cup Squad Stuns Fans

In a dramatic turn of events, Djordje Petrovic, Chelsea’s talented goalkeeper, has reportedly requested to withdraw from the club’s FIFA Club World Cup 2025 squad, sending shockwaves through the football world. The 25-year-old Serbian, who impressed on loan at RC Strasbourg in 2024/25, sent a private letter to chairman Todd Boehly, citing his desire to focus on his future. However, Enzo Maresca’s blunt response left Petrovic speechless, intensifying speculation about his Chelsea tenure.

Petrovic’s Bold Request

Petrovic, who made 31 appearances and helped Strasbourg secure European qualification, was expected to compete for Chelsea’s No. 1 spot at the Club World Cup, starting June 14, 2025, against LAFC. Instead, he requested exclusion from the 28-man squad to prioritize his career plans, as Chelsea couldn’t guarantee him a starting role over Robert Sanchez or Filip Jorgensen. According to sources, Petrovic’s letter to Boehly emphasized his need for regular first-team football, with interest from clubs like AS Monaco and Strasbourg fueling his decision.

Maresca’s Frank Response

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca, known for his direct approach, responded candidly, reportedly telling Petrovic, “We’re building a team for the future, and you need to decide where you fit.” This blunt reply stunned the goalkeeper, who had hoped for a chance to prove himself. Maresca’s decision to exclude loanees, except Andrey Santos, reflects his view of the Club World Cup as an extension of the 2024/25 season, prioritizing continuity with players like Liam Delap and Mamadou Sarr. Fans on X expressed outrage, with one posting, “Maresca’s lost the plot leaving Petrovic out!”

Fan Backlash and Future Uncertainty

The omission has sparked fury among Chelsea supporters, who see Petrovic as a superior option to Sanchez, whose inconsistent form cost points in 2024/25. “If Maresca doesn’t rate Petrovic, he should be sacked,” one fan tweeted. The decision comes after Chelsea’s failed pursuit of AC Milan’s Mike Maignan, leaving their goalkeeping depth reliant on Sanchez, Jorgensen, and youngster Mike Penders. Petrovic’s future at Stamford Bridge now appears uncertain, with a permanent move likely, as clubs like Galatasaray and West Ham circle.

What’s Next for Petrovic?

As Chelsea prepare for their Club World Cup campaign, facing Flamengo and ES Tunis after LAFC, Maresca’s focus is on silverware following their 2024/25 Conference League win. Petrovic, however, is reportedly exploring options to secure a starting role elsewhere. His stellar Ligue 1 performances make him a hot prospect, but his exclusion has raised questions about Chelsea’s goalkeeping strategy.