Enzo Maresca has revealed the rationale behind his shock decision to exclude Chelsea winger Raheem Sterling from the Blues’ season opener against defending champions Manchester City.
In previous news from Sports Buddy, it was revealed that Sterling’s camp had demanded clarity for the 29-year-old’s surprising omission from the match-day squad.
Sterling’s time at Stamford Bridge may be nearing its end, especially following Maresca’s recent decision.
Additionally, with Pedro Neto’s arrival, joining an already bloated Chelsea squad, the England international’s chances of remaining with the Blues become even bleaker.
Enzo Maresca on Sterling’s future with club and reason for omission
In a recent interview, Maresca, when asked about Sterling’s future with the club, said, as quoted by Daily Mail, ”I want Raheem Sterling, but we have 30 players, there isn’t space for all of them so some have to leave.”
When asked about the statement and the decision to axe Sterling from his squad, the Blues boss added, ‘The manager has to make some decisions.
‘’Sometimes players don’t like it, that’s normal. Just a technical decision, no more than that. With Raheem, we will clarify in the next days.’’
With Sterling’s future with the Blues hanging in the balance, a move elsewhere seems imminent.
Juventus are among the clubs interested in the former Manchester City star.
Sterling’s time with Chelsea could come to an end, having signed from the Etihad for £47.5 million in the summer of 2022.