Where Have Sterling and Disasi Been This Season?

Raheem Sterling and Axel Disasi, both Chelsea players, are currently in a "bomb squad" situation, training separately from the first team as they have not secured moves away from Stamford Bridge. Manager Enzo Maresca has confirmed that neither player has trained with the main squad since the season began, and they will continue to use different facilities indefinitely.

Last updated: 20 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Both Raheem Sterling and Axel Disasi are training separately from the Chelsea first team.
• Neither player secured a transfer before the deadline, leaving them in a "bomb squad" situation.
• Sterling expressed a desire to stay in London, rejecting offers from clubs abroad.
• Disasi was interested in returning to Monaco, but the move did not materialise.
• Both players remain registered in Chelsea's Premier League squad.

The Current Situation of Sterling and Disasi

Raheem Sterling and Axel Disasi are both notable names who have found themselves on the outskirts of Chelsea's first team. Manager Enzo Maresca has made it clear that Sterling and Disasi are training apart from their teammates, a decision termed as being part of the "bomb squad." This term typically refers to players who are not in the immediate plans of the manager and are effectively sidelined from regular first-team activities.

Reasons Behind Their Isolation

The reasons for their current predicament stem from a combination of failed transfer negotiations and their respective desires for future moves. Sterling, a 30-year-old forward, had the opportunity to join either Juventus or Bayer Leverkusen but declined both offers, preferring to remain in London to be close to his family. Despite a loan spell at Arsenal last season, the Gunners showed no interest in making the move permanent. Sterling's high wages—reportedly £325,000 per week—were likely a significant barrier for other London clubs like Fulham, Crystal Palace, and West Ham, who were encouraged by Chelsea to make offers.

Axel Disasi's Transfer Attempts

On the other hand, Axel Disasi, aged 27, was reportedly in talks with Sunderland, Bournemouth, and West Ham, but these moves fell through as he expressed a strong desire to return to his former club, Monaco. His loan stint at Aston Villa during the latter part of the last season did not lead to a permanent deal, complicating his situation further. Disasi has publicly stated that he remains fit and available to play, indicating his readiness should the situation change.

Manager's Comments on the Situation

Maresca's remarks about not having seen either player since the season started indicate a clear divide between them and the rest of the squad. He has confirmed that Sterling and Disasi train at different times and on a different pitch, which underscores the extent of their exclusion from first-team activities. The manager's approach reflects a decisive stance on players not fitting into his plans, which could potentially lead to further complications in the players' careers.

Implications for Chelsea's Season

With both Sterling and Disasi sidelined, Chelsea must navigate the season with a squad that is already missing key players due to injuries. Notably, Romeo Lavia and Benoit Badiashile are also unavailable, alongside long-term absentees Liam Delap, Levi Colwill, and Dario Essugo. This situation puts additional pressure on the remaining squad members to perform consistently, especially as Chelsea prepares for their upcoming matches.

What Happens Next for Sterling and Disasi?

The future for both Sterling and Disasi remains uncertain as they continue to train separately. Their registration in Chelsea's Premier League squad suggests that they could still feature if circumstances change, but for now, their absence from the first team raises questions about their long-term futures at the club. With the transfer window now closed, both players will need to reconsider their options and possibly reassess their situations for the upcoming January window.

Injury Concerns and Squad Depth

In addition to the situation surrounding Sterling and Disasi, Chelsea faces other challenges as they prepare to face Brentford in the Premier League. Cole Palmer's fitness is in doubt due to a groin issue, further complicating squad selection. As injuries mount, Chelsea's depth will be tested, necessitating strategic management from Maresca to maintain competitiveness in the league.

Conclusion

The ongoing situation with Raheem Sterling and Axel Disasi serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities involved in professional football. Both players are under contract with Chelsea, but their current status as sidelined players highlights the challenges of player management and squad dynamics. As the season progresses, it remains to be seen how Chelsea will address these issues and whether Sterling and Disasi will find a way back into the first team or seek opportunities elsewhere.

With the transfer window closed and both players in limbo, Chelsea fans are left to ponder the implications of these decisions. Will Sterling and Disasi find a way to reintegrate into the squad, or will they continue to train in isolation? These are questions that will unfold as the season progresses. #ChelseaFC #PremierLeague #FootballTransfers

FAQs

Why are Sterling and Disasi training separately?

Both players are training separately from the Chelsea first team as part of the "bomb squad," a term used for players not in the manager's immediate plans after failing to secure transfers.

What were the reasons for Raheem Sterling's transfer failing?

Sterling rejected offers from Juventus and Bayer Leverkusen, preferring to stay in London. His high wages and lack of interest from other London clubs contributed to the failure.

Did Axel Disasi have any offers to leave Chelsea?

Yes, Disasi had interest from Sunderland, Bournemouth, and West Ham, but all potential moves fell through as he held out for a return to Monaco, which did not happen.

What is the current injury situation at Chelsea?

Chelsea is missing key players like Romeo Lavia, Benoit Badiashile, Liam Delap, Levi Colwill, and Dario Essugo due to injuries, putting pressure on the available squad.

What does the future hold for Sterling and Disasi at Chelsea?

The future remains uncertain for both players. They will need to reassess their situations, especially with the January transfer window approaching, to find opportunities to play regularly.