Raheem Sterling finds himself completely frozen out at Chelsea, with manager Enzo Maresca excluding the 30-year-old from first-team activities despite his massive weekly salary. The former Manchester City star, who arrived at Stamford Bridge in 2022 with high expectations, has now joined what English media colorfully describe as the 'bomb squad' – players deemed surplus to requirements but difficult to move on.
Enzo Maresca has made it clear that Sterling has no future at the London club, effectively banishing him from regular training with the main squad. The England international earns approximately £300,000 weekly while having minimal access to team facilities – quite the expensive bench-warmer, isn't he?
"The situation is complicated for all parties involved," a source close to the player reportedly said. "Sterling still believes he can contribute at the highest level."
The forward's contract runs until 2027, with roughly £30 million still owed to him over the remaining term. Chelsea appear unwilling to pay this sum as severance, creating a financial standoff. His loan spell at "Arsenal" last season did little to rebuild his stock in the transfer market.
Interestingly, Sterling isn't alone in this predicament. Axel Disasi and David Datro Fofana find themselves in similar situations – training separately and with restricted access to club facilities under Maresca's ruthless squad management approach.
Despite reported interest from "Juventus" and "Bayer Leverkusen", Sterling apparently prefers to remain in London – which further complicates finding a solution. The question remains: will either side blink first in this expensive stalemate?
