'There is no space' — Maresca opens door for Sterling, others to leave Chelsea

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has sparked speculation about star forward Raheem Sterling's future at Stamford Bridge after the England star was unexpectedly left out of the squad that faced Manchester City.

The England international sought clarity on his position within the club after being left out of Chelsea’s opening Premier League match against Manchester City, with Sterling's representatives expressing surprise at his omission in a statement to the club.

The forward’s representatives also asked Maresca to disclose his plans for the veteran forward after the Manchester City match.

In response to the statement, Maresca acknowledged Sterling's quality, but pointed out the former Manchester City star had been left out of the squad due to the current bloated squad at his disposal, saying, "I want Raheem Sterling, but we have 30 players; there is no space for all of them, so some have to leave."

When pressed further about Sterling’s omission and the possibility of his departure, Maresca clarified that the decision was purely technical and that discussions regarding Sterling’s future would take place in the coming days.

Sterling, who joined Chelsea from Manchester City for £47.5 million in 2022, has been linked with a move away this summer, especially after being left out of the Blues squad for their first Premier League match.

Serie A giants Juventus are reportedly among the clubs interested in acquiring the 29-year-old winger, and with only a few days left in the transfer window, Sterling would be desperate to know if he still has a future at Chelsea or if he should push for a Stamford Bridge exit.