Sterling representatives want 'clarity' on Chelsea future

Raheem Sterling's representatives want "clarity" astir nan forward's early astatine Chelsea aft he was near retired of nan squad for Sunday's Premier League opener against Manchester City.

In a connection his representatives said Sterling has a "good moving relationship" pinch caller Blues head Enzo Maresca but location was an "expectation" he would beryllium progressive successful Sunday's match astatine Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea person spent astir £185m connected 11 signings this summer, leaving Maresca pinch a squad of much than 40 elder players.

"He returned to England 2 weeks early to behaviour individual training, and has had a affirmative pre-season nether nan caller coach, who he has developed a bully moving narration with," said nan statement.

"He is committed, arsenic ever, to delivering astatine nan highest level for Chelsea FC and nan fans, who he holds successful precocious regard, and fixed his inclusion successful charismatic nine pre-match worldly this week, our anticipation was that Raheem would beryllium progressive successful this weekend’s fixture successful immoderate capacity.

"As a camp, we person ever had affirmative speech with, and assurance from, Chelsea FC successful narration to Raheem’s early astatine nan club, truthful we look guardant to gaining clarity connected nan situation.

"Until then, we will proceed to support Raheem’s desire to commencement nan caller play positively."

Asked astir his determination to time off retired Sterling, Maresca told Sky Sports: "The head has to make immoderate decisions. Sometimes players don't for illustration it, that's normal.

"Just a method decision, nary much than that."

Sterling has made 81 appearances for Chelsea since joining from Manchester City for £50m successful July 2022.

He was 1 of nan first players to subordinate nan nine pursuing nan takeover by co-controlling owners Behdad Eghbali and Todd Boehly.

About £1.5bn has been spent connected transfers since, pinch a attraction connected younger players pinch precocious resale value.