Former Manchester United defender, Rio Ferdinand, has recently expressed his disapproval over Chelsea's treatment of English winger, Raheem Sterling. The footballer turned pundit has accused the Blues of showing a lack of respect towards one of their players.
Sterling has been dropped from the squad and his number 7 jersey handed over to new signing Pedro Neto. Furthermore, he was told by manager Enzo Maresca to look for a new club. This decision comes as part of a series of changes that have seen Chelsea make several new signings this summer in wide positions.
The influx of fresh talent into the team means that there are now numerous options available for selection in these positions. Consequently, this has resulted in Sterling falling further down the pecking order at Stamford Bridge.
Maresca's plans exclude Sterling
Maresca made it clear that Sterling is not part of his plans at the club moving forward. The former Manchester City player was advised to seek a move away from Chelsea if he wishes to secure more playing time on the pitch.
This advice seems like an ultimatum for Sterling who must now decide whether he wants to continue with limited opportunities or seek greener pastures elsewhere where his skills might be better appreciated and utilized.
Ferdinand expresses disapproval
Ferdinand voiced out his views on TNT Sports during the build-up to Brighton vs Manchester United game. He claimed that Chelsea have shown a lack of respect towards Raheem Sterling through their actions and decisions regarding him.
Manchester United legend, Rio Ferdinand, said:
‘I think that’s one of the biggest things. I think respect both ways, from the club’s point of view, but also the players. I think a lot was made of Raheem Sterling’s statement, but I think the noise is that I’m hearing that there was, there wasn’t any communication to him.
‘And I think communication is probably one of the key words as well. If there’s no communication from above as to what your role is going to be, given that you’ve been probably playing most parts of the preseason games and all of a sudden, on the eve of kick off at a season, you’re not involved.
‘You told your surplus to requirements, but the hierarchy aren’t communicating that, then you have to force the hand of the people in with the power to come and talk and get to the table. And I think that’s what Raheem Sterling, that was the point of his statement. Because I would have done that. Yeah, he was criticized. I would have done that. I would have, I would have forced the hand of the of the owners to say, Listen, you need to come and tell them what’s going on.’
While it remains uncertain what lies ahead for Raheem Sterling, it is clear that his current situation at Chelsea has sparked a debate about respect and fair treatment of players in football. This controversy serves as a reminder to clubs about the importance of maintaining good relationships with their players, regardless of their status within the team.
