Ahead of Chelsea’s UEFA Conference League play-off second leg against Servette, Maresca reiterated his decision to exclude certain players, including Raheem Sterling and England left-back Ben Chilwell, from the team. He stated, “I prefer to be honest with players. Those not involved will remain so and won’t get any minutes if they stay.”
Maresca expressed uncertainty about the future of these players once the transfer window closes, saying, “I don’t know what happens when the window closes if they are still here. The ones who will get minutes are the ones I think can help us.”
He praised Raheem Sterling, acknowledging his talent and work ethic: “Raheem is a fantastic guy who has trained very well. Every manager has a different idea, and he is the kind of winger that is not one that I like. History and numbers speak for Raheem. He knows exactly what he needs to do.”
Regarding other players training separately, Maresca was clear: “The rest are training apart; they are not going to get minutes. I have been clear and honest with them.”
Chelsea has been active in the transfer market, signing 10 players this summer and extending key player Cole Palmer’s contract until 2033. Maresca dismissed claims that the club is chaotic, stating, “I can say that this is not a mad club. Since I joined, we have been working in one direction. The players who arrived are ones we wanted to bring. There is a clear direction where the club wants to go.”
