Omari Kellyman (foto: Getty Images)
Chelsea have denied permission for Omari Kellyman to face them in the EFL Cup, preventing the on-loan midfielder from featuring for Cardiff against his parent club.
Chelsea have decided not to take any risks, blocking Omari Kellyman from playing against his parent club in tonight’s EFL Cup tie away to Cardiff City.
The 20-year-old attacking midfielder, who joined Chelsea last summer in a deal worth around €23 million from Aston Villa, is currently on loan at Cardiff and had been eagerly anticipating the chance to face the star-studded squad of the club that owns his contract. That opportunity will not materialise.
No permission from the parent club
Loaned players in English football are permitted to face their parent clubs only if written consent is granted. Cardiff submitted a formal request, but Chelsea chose not to issue the required clearance, effectively ruling Kellyman out of the match.
Cardiff are competing in League One this season and currently sit top of the table, carrying strong momentum after winning their last five league matches. The Welsh club last featured in the Premier League in the 2018/19 season, finishing 18th.
Kellyman, who began his career at Derby County, has made 17 appearances in all competitions this season, scoring two goals. His performances have marked him out as one of Cardiff’s key creative options despite his young age.
A demanding run ahead for Chelsea
Chelsea face a demanding end to the year. Before the New Year, they are set to meet Newcastle United, Aston Villa and Bournemouth in the Premier League, before opening 2026 with a daunting trip to the Etihad Stadium to face Manchester City.
Currently fourth in the league, Chelsea trail the leaders by eight points, but a strong run of results could propel them back into the title conversation.