According to ESPN, Sterling hopes to clarify his future at Chelsea. The 29-year-old star sparked speculation after being left out of the matchday squad by head coach Maresca for the game against Manchester City.
Sterling played in all six games during the team’s pre-season tour of the United States but was not included in the squad for the first round of league fixtures. In response to this, Maresca explained that it was a tactical decision and emphasized that Sterling is an important player, hoping he would be part of the team’s plans. However, he also mentioned that due to the size of the squad, some players might have to leave.
After the loss to Manchester City, Maresca reiterated his pre-match stance: “This was a tactical decision. We will sit down over the next one or two days to discuss this issue. Apart from that, there are no other reasons. All players are part of Chelsea. If they are Chelsea players, we will use them as much as possible, but this will not exceed tactical needs.”
According to ESPN, Serie A club Juventus has shown interest in Sterling. However, Sterling’s agent responded: “Raheem has three years left on his contract with Chelsea. He returned to England two weeks earlier than planned to start personal training and had a positive pre-season under the new coach. He has built a good working relationship with the new coach.”
“Raheem has always given his all for Chelsea and the fans, showing them great respect. We have been in positive communication, and Chelsea has confirmed Raheem’s future at the club. Therefore, we hope to clarify this situation. Until then, we will continue to support Raheem as he positively starts the new season.”
Sterling transferred from Manchester City to Chelsea in July 2022 for a transfer fee of £47.5 million. He has made 81 appearances for Chelsea, scoring 19 goals. However, with the emergence of young wingers in the team, Sterling seems no longer to be considered a core part of the team’s plans, and leaving Stamford Bridge appears to be only a matter of time.
