Raheem Sterling has chosen to remain at Chelsea rather than risk another rushed move, despite being frozen out of Enzo Maresca’s first-team plans. According to sources close to the winger, he was determined not to repeat the disappointment of his loan spell at Arsenal last season.
The 30-year-old, who joined Chelsea from Manchester City in 2022 for £47.5m, rejected late opportunities in Europe and Saudi Arabia before the transfer window shut. His priority was stability after last year’s failed stint at the Emirates, where he struggled to make an impact.
Sterling’s caution comes from his 2024/25 Arsenal loan, which was hastily finalised in the last 48 hours of the window. The rushed deal meant little discussion with Mikel Arteta about his role, leaving him on the fringes. Despite 28 appearances, only 13 were starts, producing just one goal and five assists in 1,143 minutes of football.
Sources say Sterling was unwilling to repeat that experience without clear assurances of playing time. He therefore opted to stay at Stamford Bridge, even though both he and defender Axel Disasi have been excluded from Maresca’s squad.
The Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) stepped in after Sterling shared an Instagram photo from Chelsea’s Cobham training ground captioned “20.21,” a reference to his isolation. Following a check, the PFA confirmed Chelsea were providing adequate coaching and facilities. To maintain fitness, Sterling and Disasi have been training with the under-21s while awaiting possible moves in January.
Maresca addressed the issue publicly, comparing the situation to his father’s tough job as a fisherman. The analogy sparked criticism, with some accusing the coach of downplaying the players’ struggles.
Despite his exile, Sterling—who earns more than £300,000 per week—continues to work with his personal team. That includes former England performance coach Ben Rosenblatt, as he focuses on maintaining fitness and sharpness with ball work at his London home. The enforced downtime also gives him extra opportunity to spend time with family while planning his next step.
