Maresca opens up about decision on Chelsea duo after Joao Felix announcement

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has opened up about his discussions with Raheem Sterling and Ben Chilwell.

The two players now appear to be on their way out of Stamford Bridge this summer, after a pep talk with the new boss.

Speaking ahead of Chelsea’s Europa Conference League play-off against Servette, Maresca emphasized the straightforward talk he has taken with the duo.

“They are training apart,” Maresca said during his pre-match press conference.

“The situation is quite clear, and there is not any update. They are Chelsea players until they are not, but it’s impossible to give them all minutes. Those who want minutes are better off leaving.

“I spoke with Raheem before the City game and told him he’d struggle to get minutes with us. The same goes for Chilly. It’s not brutal, just honest.”

Sterling and Chilwell, both of whom have been training separately from the main squad, were notably absent from Chelsea’s recent matchday squad in their 2-0 defeat to Manchester City.

With neither player included in Chelsea’s A-list squad for the Conference League, Sterling has reportedly expressed a desire to leave the club permanently.

Meanwhile, the club has recently confirmed the signing of João Félix from Atlético Madrid for £42.6 million, marking their tenth signing of the summer.

Meanwhile, Conor Gallagher has also departed for Atlético in a £34 million move after spending 15 years at Chelsea.