Sterling could miss World Cup with England after being dropped by Chelsea
Raheem Sterling’s career is at a crossroads. The 30-year-old forward has been left out of Chelsea’s plans by manager Enzo Maresca and now faces the prospect of missing the next World Cup with England.
No space at Chelsea
After spending last season on loan at Arsenal, Sterling returned to Stamford Bridge but was quickly informed he would not feature under Maresca. With the European transfer window closed, Chelsea were unable to offload the striker, whose high salary of €340,000 per week (around R$2.1 million) is proving a major burden for the club.
The player has already rejected offers from both Saudi Arabia and Major League Soccer, insisting on staying in London. However, he now trains separately from the first team, eats alone at the facilities, and remains isolated from his teammates, according to Metro UK.
National team setback
The situation could heavily impact Sterling’s international future. Without regular football, his chances of being recalled by Gareth Southgate are slim. The winger has not played for England since the 2022 World Cup quarterfinal against France, a 2-1 defeat.
Last season, Sterling made 28 appearances, scoring just one goal and providing five assists far from the numbers expected of him.
Sterling’s England record
The Liverpool-born forward has represented England in three World Cups and two European Championships, and was once considered a key figure in the national team’s attack. But with younger options emerging, his absence from club football could mark the end of his international career.
