Jamie Carragher has slammed Chelsea attacker Raheem Sterling after he released a statement through his representatives. Sterling was snubbed by Enzo Maresca from the Blues’ matchday squad against Manchester City on Sunday, August 18.
Chelsea suffered a 2-0 home defeat against the defending champions, courtesy of goals from Erling Haaland (18′) and Mateo Kovacic (84′). Sterling’s camp released a statement before kick-off which read (via Mirror):
“Raheen Sterling is contracted to Chelsea Football Club for the next three years. 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.”
“He is committed, as ever, to delivering at the highest level to 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 Raheen would be involved in this weekend’s fixture in some capacity,” it continued.
The statement concluded:
“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.”
Carragher lambasted Sterling for his statement, writing 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.”
Raheem Sterling finds himself in a difficult spot at Chelsea
Raheem Sterling is just one of the many wingers Chelsea have at their disposal. The Blues have the likes of Pedro Neto, Mykhaylo Mudryk, and Noni Madueke in their ranks.
Hence, Sterling’s spot in the first team isn’t guaranteed. As the Manchester City game suggests, new Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca might not even consider the Englishman for matchday squads.
Raheem Sterling joined Chelsea from Manchester City in 2022. He has since made 81 appearances for the club, scoring 19 goals and setting up 12 more.
Sterling still has three years left in his contract. However, the 29-year-old’s Chelsea future looks bleak at this point.