Sterling, Chilwell Absent From Chelsea Training Amid Transfer Speculation

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Enzo Maresca has confirmed that Raheem Sterling and Ben Chilwell are not training with Chelsea's first team amid transfer speculation. Both players, who have made a combined 187 appearances for the Blues, were absent from the squad during their opening day defeat to Manchester City.

The duo is part of a group of 15 players training away from the main squad as Chelsea seeks to resolve their futures before the transfer window closes. Maresca explained this situation to reporters ahead of their Europa Conference League play-off tie against Swiss side Servette.

"In this moment, they are training apart," Maresca told reporters. "We have a big squad, for me it's impossible to give everyone minutes. So if they're looking for minutes, probably it is better to leave."

Chelsea will face Servette on Thursday in the Europa Conference League play-off tie. The club's official Twitter account shared an update about welcoming the Swiss side.

Maresca's Honest Assessment

Before their 2-0 loss to Manchester City, Maresca had informed Sterling he would not be included in the squad against his former team. Sterling's representatives released a statement seeking clarity on his future at Stamford Bridge just before kick-off.

Despite Sterling completing 45 dribbles last season—only surpassed by Cole Palmer (52) and Nicolas Jackson (54)—Maresca stated that Sterling does not fit his preferred winger profile for the upcoming season. "I'm not saying he's not a good player, but I prefer different kinds of wingers," said Maresca.

Chilwell's Position at Risk

Maresca also addressed Chilwell's situation, stating that while he is a "lovely guy," his position makes it difficult for him to get playing time. "I spoke with Raheem before Manchester City, I said that he is going to struggle to get minutes with us," Maresca added.

"With [Chilwell], I said he is a lovely guy but with his position, he's going to struggle with us. It's not brutal; it's honest."

Future Prospects for Sterling and Chilwell

Maresca emphasised that although it is an uncomfortable situation, it is important for players to understand their prospects at the club. "It's good to know that if you want to stay, you will struggle to get minutes," he said.

"But in a few days or weeks it can be a better situation because you move and you join a club where you will get more minutes."