Enzo Maresca Defends Decision to Exclude Sterling and Disasi

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has responded to questions about leaving out Raheem Sterling and Axel Disasi. He said real hardship is not being a footballer but working difficult jobs like his fisherman father did.

WHAT DID MARESCA SAY?

Maresca was asked how hard life is for Sterling and Disasi after being left out. He replied, “My father was a fisherman. He worked from 2 a.m. to 10 a.m. every day for 50 years. This is hard in life, not being a football player.” The Italian coach confirmed both players are training apart from the main squad and stressed there is no way back for them at Chelsea under his management. Since the start of the season, Maresca says he has not seen either player. They have been working at different times and on different pitches from the first team. According to reports, Raheem Sterling remains out of the Chelsea squad as part of Maresca’s new plans.

WHY ARE STERLING AND DISASI OUT?

Maresca’s stance comes after both Sterling and Disasi failed to secure transfers in the summer. Sterling joined Chelsea in 2022 from Manchester City. He struggled for form and saw a disappointing loan spell at Arsenal last season, where he scored one goal and got five assists in 28 games. Disasi arrived from Monaco in 2023 but did not convince Chelsea. He spent time on loan at Aston Villa last campaign. Despite being available for transfer, both players remained at Stamford Bridge. Maresca has made it clear that they will not feature for Chelsea, at least until January. Neither player is expected to play competitive football this fall. Reports indicate that Chelsea want to sell Raheem Sterling and have offered him to Napoli.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR CHELSEA AND THE PLAYERS?

This situation comes at a key moment for Chelsea. The team currently sits fifth in the Premier League table after drawing with Brentford last weekend. Chelsea will travel to face Manchester United in the Premier League this weekend, with Chelsea just four points ahead of United in the standings. For Sterling and Disasi, their futures are uncertain. Talks continue about their situation, including possible contract terminations or January transfers. The Professional Footballers’ Association is now involved to ensure the players are treated fairly as required by FIFA rules.