‘Noisy’ Raheem Sterling let his Chelsea team-mates down, says Micah Richards

Raheem Sterling has been roundly criticised after spitting his dummy out following his omission from Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea squad to face Manchester City on Sunday.

Maresca was always facing an uphill battle to get anything from his opening game as Chelsea manager, with Pep Guardiola’s Premier League champions arriving at Stamford Bridge for the first game of the new season.

But the former Leicester City manager’s hopes of securing an opening-game win were not helped by Sterling releasing a statement through his ‘camp’ before kick-off, complaining about not being selected in Maresca’s match-day squad.

A spokesperson for Sterling said: "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."

‘Just a technical decision’

Chelsea went on to lose the game, with goals from Erling Haaland and Mateo Kovacic sealing a comfortable 2-0 win for visiting City.

Speaking to the press after the match, Maresca said: "I want Sterling but I want all of them. I can't have them all so some will have to leave.

“In the next few days, we will see if we can clarify the situation."

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Maresca had explained to Sky Sports before the game kicked off: "The manager has to take decisions that people and players don't like - it's normal.

“It's just a technical decision, no more than that. We will see in the next few days."

Sky Sports’ many pundits formed a queue to criticise 29-year-old Sterling’s action, but former Man City defender Micah Richards nailed it best when he said: "Raheem and his team know exactly what they're doing - they're trying to make noise.

“There's a lot of noise around the club anyway. Putting that statement out before the game is not good enough.

"That is not going to help his team-mates and probably his case of getting back into the team.

"He's called his manager out and let his team-mates down. That's my problem with it. He's better than that."

Window of opportunity

With the summer transfer window open until 11pm on August 30, it seems likely that Sterling could be heading for the Stamford Bridge exit door.

Here, Sports News Blitz takes a look at the former Liverpool and Man City star’s career so far.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Born: December 8, 1994, in Kingston, Jamaica. Sterling moved to England at the age of five.

Youth Career: Sterling began his football journey at the local youth club Alpha & Omega before being scouted by Queens Park Rangers (QPR). His talent quickly became evident, and he joined the QPR academy at a young age.

Liverpool (2010–2015)

Signed by Liverpool: In 2010, Sterling joined Liverpool's youth academy at the age of 15 for a fee of around £600,000, potentially rising to £5million with add-ons.

Senior Debut: He made his first-team debut for Liverpool on March 24, 2012, at the age of 17, in a Premier League match against Wigan Athletic.

Breakthrough: Sterling became a regular starter during the 2012-2013 season. He was known for his speed, dribbling ability, and versatility in attacking positions. His performances improved under Brendan Rodgers, and he became a key player for Liverpool.

2013-2014 Season: Sterling played a crucial role in Liverpool's title challenge, forming a formidable attacking trio with Luis Suárez and Daniel Sturridge. Liverpool finished second in the league that season, with Sterling's performances earning him widespread praise.

Manchester City (2015–2022)

Transfer to Manchester City: In July 2015, Sterling transferred to Manchester City for an initial £44million, potentially rising to £49million with add-ons. This made him the most expensive English player at the time.

Development Under Pep Guardiola: Sterling's game reached new heights under City manager Pep Guardiola, who took over in 2016. He improved his finishing, decision-making, and tactical understanding, becoming one of the top wingers in the Premier League.

Achievements:

Premier League Titles: Sterling has won multiple Premier League titles with Manchester City (2017-2018, 2018-2019, 2020-2021, and 2021-2022).

Domestic Cups: He has also won several EFL Cups and an FA Cup with the club.

Individual Accolades: Sterling has been named in the PFA Team of the Year multiple times and has won the FWA Footballer of the Year award in 2019.

Chelsea (2022–Present)

Transfer to Chelsea: In July 2022, Sterling moved to Chelsea for a reported fee of around £47.5million. He became one of the key signings under the new ownership of Chelsea, who were undergoing a period of transition.

Role at Chelsea: Sterling has been an important player for Chelsea, contributing with goals and assists. However, his first season at Chelsea was challenging, as the club went through managerial changes and inconsistent performances.

International Career

England Debut: Sterling made his senior debut for England on November 14, 2012, in a friendly against Sweden.

Major Tournaments:

2014 World Cup: Sterling was part of England's squad but the team was eliminated in the group stage.

Euro 2016: England reached the Round of 16 but were knocked out by Iceland.

2018 World Cup: Sterling was a key player in England's run to the semi-finals, where they finished fourth.

Euro 2020: Sterling was one of England's standout performers, scoring three goals as the team reached the final, where they were runners-up to Italy.

Playing Style: Sterling is known for his blistering pace, excellent dribbling skills, and ability to play on either wing or as a central attacker. He is also known for his work rate and tactical flexibility.

Legacy and Impact

Sterling has been a prominent figure in English football, not just for his on-field achievements but also for his role in advocating against racism and promoting social justice.

His career has been marked by continuous development and adaptation, making him one of the most successful and influential English players of his generation.

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