The representative of former Liverpool star Raheem Sterling is selling “clarity” on the player’s future at Chelsea after he was not included to feature in the Premier League’s opening match between Chelsea and Manchester City on Sunday.
The representatives claimed that the player has a “good working relationship” with the recently employed coach, Enzo Maresca, and he expected that the player would be featured in the Sunday match at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues have expended almost £185 million to acquire 11 new players this summer, leaving the coach with a team of over 40 senior players.
“He returned to England two weeks early to conduct individual training, and has had a positive pre-season under the new coach, who he has developed a good working relationship with,” said the statement.“He is committed, as ever, to delivering at the highest level for Chelsea FC and the fans, who he holds in high regard, and given his inclusion in official club pre-match material this week, our expectation was that Raheem would be involved in this weekend’s fixture in some capacity.
“As a camp, we have always had positive dialogue with, and assurance from, Chelsea FC in relation to Raheem’s future at the club, so we look forward to gaining clarity on the situation.
“Until then, we will continue to support Raheem’s desire to start the new season positively.”
Asked about his decision to leave out Sterling, Maresca told Sky Sports: “The manager has to make some decisions. Sometimes players don’t like it, that’s normal.
“Just a technical decision, no more than that.”
Since Sterling joined Chelsea from Manchester City for £50 million in July 2022, he has featured in 81 matches for Chelsea.
Sterling was signed after co-controlling owners Behdad Eghbali and Todd Boehly took over the club.
The team has spent almost £1.5bn on transfers since, with a focus on acquiring younger players who will generate higher resale values.