Raheem Sterling’s Statement Sparks Controversy

Raheem Sterling‘s camp stirred up some conversation just before kick-off this weekend after he was left out of Chelsea‘s squad for their match against Manchester City.

In a surprising statement released right before the game, his representatives expressed a desire for more clarity on his future with the club. This move didn’t sit well with pundits like Jamie Redknapp, Micah Richards, and Daniel Sturridge on Sky Sports’ Super Sunday.

Sterling, who is under contract with Chelsea for three more years, returned to the team early to train individually and felt he had a good pre-season. His camp was clearly taken aback by his exclusion from the matchday squad, especially after he was included in club materials leading up to the game.

Jamie Redknapp didn’t hold back, saying that instead of releasing a statement, Sterling should focus on improving his performance on the pitch. Redknapp mentioned that if a manager decides not to play you, the best move is to keep working hard and earn your place back in the team.

Similarly, Micah Richards criticized the timing of the statement, suggesting that it only added more noise to an already turbulent environment at Chelsea and wouldn’t help Sterling’s case to get back into the squad.

Daniel Sturridge agreed, acknowledging that while Sterling likely felt he deserved a spot in the squad, sending out a message on match day wasn’t the right approach.

After Chelsea’s 2-0 loss to Manchester City, head coach Enzo Maresca clarified that Sterling’s absence was purely tactical. He mentioned wanting to have all players available but couldn’t fit everyone into the match plans.

As the season progresses, it remains to be seen how this situation will unfold for Sterling, who is reportedly still a target for Juventus, though his high wages may complicate any potential deal.