Rio Ferdinand slams Chelsea for ‘wild’ treatment of ‘Uncle Raheem Sterling’ after star was axed from squad
RIO FERDINAND has ripped into Chelsea for their ‘wild’ treatment of Raheem Sterling.
The Blues winger was stunned to learn he was axed from the squad to face Manchester City in Enzo Maresca’s Premier League opener.
Sterling’s camp released a statement that they “are seeking clarity” after the England forward was expecting to be involved against the Citizens.
Instead, Cole Palmer, Christopher Nkunku, Mykhailo Mudryk, Noni Madueke and new signing Pedro Neto were all selected for Sunday’s 2-0 defeat.
Maresca said the decision to leave Sterling out was a “technical” one, but reports suggests that he is welcome to listen to offers.
And now Ferdinand has weighed in on the drama and slammed Chelsea in the process.
The United legend, 45, has warned club chiefs about the dangers of treating an “uncle'” figure in such a “wild way”.
On Ferdinand Presents, he said: “I see all the young players, especially in that squad, talk about Raheem.
“It’s like Uncle Raheem. Palmer, the likes of Reece James, it’s Uncle Raheem.
“And he’s looked after a lot of these boys, they come to him, so when you kick that guy in the changing room. All of them are going to limp at some point and they aren’t going to take it well and you create a problem in your own dressing room.
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“There’s nobody delivering that message with any clarity, and from what I’m hearing Sterling has got no understanding of where his situation lies.
“He hasn’t had anyone in the hierarchy come to him and say: “Listen, you’re surplus to requirements, we want to get rid of you.”
Sterling's camp statement in full
A statement released before kick-off read: “Raheem Sterling is contracted to Chelsea Football Club for the next three years.
“He returned to England two weeks early to conduct individual training, and has had a positive pre-season under the new coach, who he has developed a good working relationship with.
“He is committed, as ever, to delivering at the highest level for Chelsea FC and the fans, who he holds in high regard, and given his inclusion in official club pre-match material this week, our expectation was that Raheem would be involved in this weekend’s fixture in some capacity.
“As a camp, we have always had positive dialogue with, and assurance from, Chelsea FC in relation to Raheem’s future at the club, so we look forward to gaining clarity on the situation.
“Until then, we will continue to support Raheem’s desire to start the new season positively.”
Maresca spoke to Sterling on Friday and explained he wouldn’t be involved for technical reasons, according to Sky Sports.
The 30-year-old has made 81 appearances for Chelsea since joining from former side City for £50m in July 2022.
He was one of the first players to join the club following the takeover by co-controlling owners Behdad Eghbali and Todd Boehly.
Sterling has earned 82 senior international caps, but has not played for England since the 2022 World Cup.
Juventus are among the clubs with an interest in the former PFA Young Player of the Year, who, it is understood, could leave before the transfer window shuts.
SunSport have contacted Chelsea for comment.
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