Full Breakdown
Chelsea's "Bomb Squad": The Future of Raheem Sterling and Axel Disasi
9/14/2025, 10:44:10 AM
Current Status of Sterling and Disasi
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has confirmed that Raheem Sterling and Axel Disasi are effectively exiled from the first team, having not participated in any training sessions with the main squad since the start of the 2025–26 season. Both players are part of what has been termed the "bomb squad," a group of players deemed surplus to requirements. Maresca stated, “They are Chelsea players, but at the moment they are training separately and the plan is to continue in this way.” This separation includes training at different times and on different pitches, indicating a clear intention to keep them away from first-team activities.
Transfer Attempts and Outcomes
Despite being registered in Chelsea’s Premier League squad, both Sterling and Disasi were unable to secure moves away from the club during the summer transfer window. Sterling, who spent the previous season on loan at Arsenal, was linked with potential transfers to Juventus and Bayer Leverkusen but opted to remain in London for family reasons. Disasi, on the other hand, had interest from Sunderland, Bournemouth, and West Ham United but held out for a return to his former club, Monaco, which did not materialize. Maresca emphasized that neither player has a future in his plans, stating, “With us? No.”
Broader Implications for Chelsea
The situation surrounding Sterling and Disasi reflects Chelsea's broader strategy to streamline their squad. The club has been active in reshaping its roster, having reportedly generated over £300 million in sales during the summer. This restructuring aims to create a more cohesive team dynamic while reducing the financial burden of high-earning players without a defined role. The ongoing separation of Sterling and Disasi from the first team underscores the club's commitment to this strategy.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics of Chelsea's approach argue that the treatment of players like Sterling and Disasi raises questions about the club's management and player welfare. Some observers suggest that the lack of opportunities for these experienced players could lead to a negative atmosphere within the squad, potentially impacting team morale. Furthermore, the inability to offload high-wage players has been highlighted as a significant challenge for the club.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Since the season started, I haven't seen either of them. I haven't seen Axel or Raheem. They train at a different time and on a different pitch. I haven't seen them since the start of the season.” — Enzo Maresca, Chelsea Manager
- “They train at a different time and on a different pitch.” — Enzo Maresca, Chelsea Manager
- “He said, ahead of the 2-2 draw against Brentford: “They are Chelsea players because they have a contract with the club.” — Enzo Maresca, Chelsea Manager
What's Next?
As the January transfer window approaches, the futures of Raheem Sterling and Axel Disasi remain uncertain. Both players will continue to train separately, and unless a significant change occurs, they are likely to remain part of the "bomb squad" until at least the next transfer window. Chelsea's management will need to navigate these complexities while addressing the ongoing challenges of squad cohesion and financial sustainability.
