ENZO Maresca has failed to clarify whether Raheem Sterling has a future at the club after the England international’s representatives caused controversy at the weekend by demanding the Blues clear up where their client stands.
Maresca left Sterling, 29, out of his match-day squad for their opening Premier League game of the season against Manchester City, which they lost 2-0.
Maresca currently has more than 40 senior players in his squad and can only pick 20 on match-days.
“I want Raheem Sterling but we have 30 players, there is no space for all of them so some have to leave,” Maresca said.
“The manager has to make some decisions.
“Sometimes players don’t like it, that’s normal. Just a technical decision, no more than that. With Raheem, we will clarify in the next days.”
After Sterling had been left out at the weekend, his camp released a statement which said: “Raheem 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 for 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 Raheem would be involved in this weekend’s fixture in some capacity.
“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.”
