Why Joao Felix has been left out of Chelsea's squad for Man City showdown as transfer rumours swirl - explained

Felix was reported around five hours before the game in Manchester to have not travelled with the squad. It sparked some speculation given that the Portuguese's future at Stamford Bridge has been far from certain amid a lack of regular playing time.

Journalist Matt Law offered clarification as to why Felix is absent and it is nothing to do with any transfer activity. The player has been granted compassionate leave by the club due to a family bereavement and has flown home to Portugal.

Felix joined Chelsea on a permanent transfer last summer, following a previous loan spell in the latter half of 2022-23. But he's started only three Premier League games - and just nine across all competitions. The 25-year-old has been linked with AC Milan and, surprisingly, even Manchester United in recent days.

It remains to be seen how long Felix will spend back home with his family. But if there is to be any movement on the transfer front, there is only just over a week until the winter window closes on February 3.