Enzo Maresca finally reveals what Raheem Sterling did to him as he wants him out of the club
Raheem Sterling is presently training apart from the first team group, as confirmed by Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca in an open and honest press conference. The England winger is being advised to look for a move away from Stamford Bridge before the transfer window shuts.
Sterling’s conspicuous absence from Chelsea’s Premier League debut matchup with his old team, Manchester City, raised questions about his future with the team.
Maresca confronted the matter head-on, saying he had an open discussion with Sterling before the game and told the winger that he would probably find it difficult to earn playing time under the present setup.
Maresca emphasized that this decision was based on tactical preferences rather than Sterling’s abilities as a player.
“I try to be honest. I spoke with Raheem before the Man City game. I said he’s going to struggle to get minutes with us, and this is the reason,” Maresca explained.
“If you define this as brutal, it’s up to you to decide. For me, it’s not brutal, it’s just honest. I’m not saying Raheem is not a good player, but I prefer different kinds of wingers, and this is the reason why.”
Enzo also discussed his season-ending performance the previous year, which was expected to guarantee Chelsea’s Champions League position.
“I want a player that will take their chances and score goals for me”
“Chelsea had the chance to secure UCL football last season but due to lack of goals and not taking chances cost us last season” According to him.
Maresca acknowledged that the situation is uncomfortable for Sterling but insisted that it was important for the player to understand the reality of his prospects at the club.
“It’s not a comfortable situation. I know exactly the feeling, but it’s good to know that if you stay, you are going to struggle to get minutes,” he added.
Sterling, who has scored 19 goals in 81 appearances for Chelsea since his high-profile move from Manchester City in 2022, is now left to consider his options as the transfer deadline approaches.
With limited playing time on the horizon at Chelsea, a move could be on the cards for the 29-year-old winger as he looks to secure regular football elsewhere.