Raheem Sterling has been excluded from Chelsea’s squad for their Europa Conference League play-off first leg against Servette. This marks the second consecutive game that the 29-year-old England forward has not been included in the matchday squad, following his absence from Chelsea’s Premier League opener against Manchester City.
Defenders Ben Chilwell, Wesley Fofana, and Tosin Adarabioyo were also omitted from Chelsea’s A-list submitted to UEFA for the Europa Conference League match scheduled for Thursday at Stamford Bridge (20:00 BST). The second leg will take place in Switzerland on 29 August.
If Chelsea advances past this stage, Sterling may be included in the squad for the Conference League group stage. Sterling’s representatives expressed a desire for “clarity” regarding his future at the club before the team’s defeat by City on Sunday.
Chelsea has invested approximately £185 million in 11 new signings this summer, resulting in a squad of over 40 senior players. Manager Enzo Maresca stated after the City game that he “wants” Sterling at Chelsea, but admitted that “there is not enough space” for all players to participate in matches.
Since joining Chelsea from Manchester City for £50 million in July 2022, Sterling has made 81 appearances for the club.
