Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca responds when asked 'Do you want Sterling in the squad or not?' after 2-0 loss to Manchester City
After Chelsea's 2-0 loss against Manchester City in the Premier League on Sunday, August 18, Enzo Maresca was asked if he wants Raheem Sterling in his squad this season. The Italian tactician's decision to omit the Englishman for the matchday squad had caused a furore ahead of the fixture.
Goals from Erling Haaland (18') and Mateo Kovacic (84') helped City beat the Blues 2-0 in a blistering start to their campaign. The Blues created several chances throughout the game but were unable to convert them.
Furthermore, Enzo Fernandez, who was handed the captain's armband in the absence of Reece James, had an evening to forget.
Blues' new signing Pedro Neto came on as a substitute around the hour mark and replaced Christopher Nkunku. However, even the Portuguese winger couldn't make a significant impact.
Chelsea's performance left fans and pundits wondering if Sterling's addition could've had an impact on the game. When asked if he wants the Englishman to be a part of his squad, Maresca said (via Fabrizio Romano):
"Do you want Sterling in the squad or not? I want all 30 players… but there is no space for all of them so some have to leave."
Raheem Sterling's camp wants clarity about the 29-year-old's future at Chelsea
After Chelsea's squad for their Premier League opener was announced, Sterling's camp issued a statement about the Englishman's omission. They asked the club and the manager to provide clarity regarding his future at the club.
The former City forward arrived at Stamford Bridge in 2022 on a five-year contract. He scored 10 goals and managed eight assists in 43 appearances across all competitions last season.
Maresca, while explaining his decision, said (via Fabrizio Romano):
"It's just a technical decision, nothing else to say. Managers are paid to make decisions and sometimes players don’t like it."
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher shared his two cents on the matter and said that there wasn't a need for a statement from Sterling's entourage.
Here's what he wrote on X:
"Massive fan of Raheem as a player & a lad. Not a fan of the Chelsea set up with owners etc… But this statement is ridiculous! As a camp! We look forward to gaining clarity!! No need for a statement, especially an hour before kick off!! Just play better."