Raheem Sterling has been omitted from Chelsea‘s squad for their Europa Conference League play-off first leg against Servette.
Thursday’s match marks the second consecutive game 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 are also missing from Chelsea’s A-list submitted to UEFA for Thursday’s fixture at Stamford Bridge.
The second leg will take place in Switzerland on August 29.
Should Chelsea advance, Sterling could be included in their squad for the Conference League group stage.
Sterling’s representatives issued a statement before Sunday’s defeat to City, seeking “clarity” regarding the player’s future at the club.
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.”
Chelsea have invested around £185m on 11 new signings this summer, leaving manager Enzo Maresca with a squad of over 40 senior players.
After the City game, Maresca expressed his desire to keep Sterling but acknowledged that “there is not enough space” for all his players to be involved in every match.
Sterling has made 81 appearances for Chelsea since joining from Manchester City for £50m in July 2022.
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