In a candid and straightforward press conference, Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca confirmed that Raheem Sterling is currently training away from the first-team squad and urged the England winger to seek a move away from Stamford Bridge before the transfer window closes.

Sterling was notably absent from Chelsea’s Premier League opener against his former club, Manchester City, prompting speculation about his future at the club.

Maresca addressed the situation directly, stating that he had an honest conversation with Sterling prior to the match, informing the winger that he would likely struggle to get game time under the current system.

Maresca emphasized that this decision was based on tactical preferences rather than Sterling’s abilities as a player.

“I try to be honest. I spoke with Raheem before the Man City game. I said he’s going to struggle to get minutes with us, and this is the reason,” Maresca explained.

“If you define this as brutal, it’s up to you to decide. For me, it’s not brutal, it’s just honest. I’m not saying Raheem is not a good player, but I prefer different kinds of wingers, and this is the reason why.”

Maresca acknowledged that the situation is uncomfortable for Sterling but insisted that it was important for the player to understand the reality of his prospects at the club.

“It’s not a comfortable situation. I know exactly the feeling, but it’s good to know that if you stay, you are going to struggle to get minutes,” he added.

Sterling, who has scored 19 goals in 81 appearances for Chelsea since his high-profile move from Manchester City in 2022, is now left to consider his options as the transfer deadline approaches.

With limited playing time on the horizon at Chelsea, a move could be on the cards for the 29-year-old winger as he looks to secure regular football elsewhere.