Details Emerge on How Key Chelsea Star Disappeared from Team Hotel Before Refusing to Play in The FA Cup Final

• Andreas Christensen was not part of Chelsea's starting XI as the Blues lost to Liverpool in the FA Cup final
• Reports claim the 26-year-old vanished from the team hotel just hours before Chelsea took to Wembley for the fixture
• The Danish star has been linked with a Stamford Bridge departure, with Barcelona understood to be strong favourites to land the services of the defender

Chelsea defender Andreas Christensen was nowhere to be seen as the Blues prepared to play Liverpool in the FA Cup final on Saturday, May 14, at Wembley Stadium.

The Denmark international ultimately played no role in the encounter, with Thomas Tuchel's men battling the Reds to a 0-0 draw before losing the tie in post-match penalties.

The Mirror reports Christensen’s teammates were left in shock after the Danish star disappeared from the team hotel hours before the clash before failing to make the starting XI.

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The publication claims Tuchel resolved not to pick the defender and was forced into a last-minute change that disrupted his plans.

It is understood Christensen had complained of feeling unwell during the week but wanted to play at Wembley.

However, the Mirror adds, Tuchel decided against the move and booted him out of his plans.

Andreas Christensen linked with Barcelona move

The Saturday development comes amid reports Christensen could be headed for an acrimonious departure from Stamford Bridge in the summer.

Reports claim Chelsea have been left frustrated during contract talks but a deal was not reached.

The 26-year-old has since been linked with a summer move to Barcelona on a free transfer.

His imminent exit comes just days after Antonio Rudiger, another key Chelsea squad member, penned a deal with Real Madrid.

Drogba congratulates Emma Hayes after FA Cup triumph

Earlier, Sports Brief reported Chelsea legend Didier Drogba has congratulated Emma Hayes after she helped the team win the FA Cup on Sunday.

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The Blues silenced Manchester City's women's team 3-2 in the final of the competition to end the season on a positive note.

This was the fourth time Emma had led Chelsea to victory in the competition, with Drogba underscoring her significance in the team.