Ferdinard was shocked by Sterling's exclusion from the squad for the Premier League opener against Manchester City.
Manchester United legend, Rio Ferdinand has launched a critical attack on Chelsea’s handling of Raheem Sterling, accusing the club of treating the England forward with "wild" disrespect.
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The Manchester United legend expressed shock at Sterling’s omission from the squad for the Premier League opener against Manchester City, claiming the winger is seen as a "father figure" by younger players.
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Ferdinand believes Chelsea’s treatment of Sterling could create a toxic atmosphere within the dressing room, "I see all the young players, especially in that squad, talk about Raheem, it's like Uncle Raheem," he said on Rio Ferdinand Presents.
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21:54 - 18.08.2024
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He continued, "And he's looked after a lot of these boys, they come to him, so when you kick that guy in the changing room, all of them are going to limp at some point and they aren't going to take it well and you create a problem in your dressing room."
Sterling’s camp has expressed confusion over the situation, claiming the player was expecting to be involved in the match.
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Meanwhile, Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca insisted the decision was purely tactical but admitted the problem would be clarified in the coming days.
The former Manchester City winger has been linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge this summer and his exclusion from the squad has fueled speculation about his future at the club.
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Sterling's representatives have confirmed the player is contracted to Chelsea for another three years and that he returned to training early in preparation for the new season.
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