“No Space For All The Players” – Says Enzo Maresca After Sterling’s Absence

New Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca fueled speculation regarding Raheem’s future at Stamford Bridge by excluding the winger from squad for Sunday’s match against Manchester City.

He mentioned that some player might have to move on.

“I want Raheem Sterling but I want all the 30 players that we have, but there is no space for all of them. So for some of them, they have to leave,” Maresca said after the 2-0 defeat to City when asked about the England striker’s absence.

The Italian said Sterling’s omission was a “technical” decision.

Shortly before kick-off, Sterling’s agent released a statement saying that the player shares a positive working relationship with Maresca and is dedicated to performing for Chelsea

“Given his inclusion in official club pre-match material this week, we expected that Raheem would be involved in this weekend’s fixture in some capacity,” the statement said.

“As a camp, we have always had positive dialogue with, and assurance from, Chelsea FC with Raheem’s future at the club, so we look forward to gaining clarity on the situation.”

Sterling joined Chelsea from Manchester City in 2022, but his performance at Stamford Bridge has been inconsistent, leading to his exclusion from England’s Euro 2024 squad.