Raheem Sterling's exclusion from Chelsea's Premier League opener against Manchester City has sparked a wave of criticism from the club's fanbase.
New Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca's decision to leave the winger out of the squad raised eyebrows, but it's Sterling's reaction that has fans questioning his attitude.
Sterling’s camp quickly demanded clarity on why he was left out, which many supporters saw as an overreaction.
The outcry began on social media, where fans voiced their displeasure with Sterling's perceived sense of entitlement.
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One Chelsea supporter, @jamesdsmitth, didn't hold back, saying: "All that Sterling statement does is show him to be completely entitled, as if he thinks he has a divine right to be in the squad. It’s the first game of the season and he’s kicking off. That’s not someone who wants to give their best for Chelsea. Get him gone."
Another fan, @CFCDUBois, compared Sterling to a prime Cristiano Ronaldo, stating, "Sterling put out a statement after being left out of the squad as if he’s prime CR7." The frustration continued with @rhystakes, who praised Maresca's decision, adding, "Sterling statement reinforces why dropping him is the right decision. What a disgrace, thinks he’s bigger than the club."
🚨🔵 Chelsea fully support Maresca’s technical decision on Raheem Sterling not being part of the squad vs Man City.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 19, 2024
It was communicated on Friday and the club is 100% supportive with Maresca, fully behind him. pic.twitter.com/chY0Q6pa6Y
The timing of Sterling's statement also drew criticism. @falsewinger pointed out, "Sterling's camp has released a statement just MINUTES after he was dropped from the matchday squad. This is on par with that Lukaku interview. Player putting themselves ahead of the club and it shouldn't be accepted."
Chelsea's new manager, Maresca, described his decision as purely "technical," but the incident has cast doubt on Sterling’s future at Stamford Bridge. Juventus had shown interest in the winger before, but whether they will revisit that interest remains uncertain.
Chelsea's next lineup, as they prepare to face Servette in the Europa Conference League and Wolves in the Premier League, will be closely watched by fans eager to see if Sterling makes a return or if his exclusion was just the beginning of a deeper issue within the squad.
