Raheem Sterling’s situation at Chelsea has become one of the most high-profile sagas of the Premier League season, but Rio Ferdinand believes the winger’s biggest challenge lies away from Stamford Bridge.
The 30-year-old has been exiled by Enzo Maresca, consigned to the so-called “bomb squad” alongside other unwanted senior players, and forced to train separately from the first team. Sterling’s late-evening sessions sparked complaints about Chelsea’s treatment of him, with the PFA stepping in to ensure he still met the standards of a professional training environment.
While his Chelsea career looks finished, Ferdinand insists the winger’s real dilemma is international, with Sterling still harbouring ambitions of returning to the England setup despite not being capped since the 2022 World Cup.
Ferdinand: Sterling’s focus is England, not Chelsea
Speaking on Rio Ferdinand Presents, the former Manchester United defender explained why he believes Sterling’s motivation remains tied to his country.
“The biggest problem he’s got is I think he’s still got inspirations to play for England, because he’s only 30. That’s the bigger thing for him, ‘How can I get back playing, to then get back playing for England?’ I think that’s the way he’ll be thinking about it. But again, he’s not going to do it to the detriment of his family to move them about the world.” — Rio Ferdinand
Sterling’s England record — 82 caps and 20 goals — underscores his pedigree, but with Thomas Tuchel yet to call him up since taking charge, his international career has stalled. Ferdinand believes regular club football is the only way back, regardless of his current status in west London.
Contract complications block exit
Sterling’s £325,000-a-week salary is another stumbling block. The winger turned down interest from Crystal Palace and Fulham in the summer, prioritising staying in London for family reasons, but few clubs can match his wage demands.
Former Liverpool and England midfielder Danny Murphy argued that Sterling may need to compromise. “If he wants to play again, he’ll have to cut his wages. No one is going to pay that for a player outside of the squad,” Murphy warned.
With Sterling stuck at Chelsea until at least January, his hopes of reigniting his England career will depend on whether he accepts reduced terms to secure a move.
Stats snapshot: Raheem Sterling career (club & country)
| Stat | Sterling |
|---|---|
| Age | 30 |
| England Caps | 82 |
| England Goals | 20 |
| Last England Appearance | 2022 World Cup |
source: England national team records – 22 September 2025
The figures highlight just how much experience Sterling still offers, though his England absence now stretches to nearly three years.
Analyst verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William believes Sterling is facing a crossroads. “At 30, Sterling still has the pace and technical quality to impact games, but without minutes his England dream fades. Unless he takes a pay cut, he risks being remembered for how his Chelsea chapter ended rather than his career achievements.”
Key insights
- Rio Ferdinand says Sterling’s “biggest problem” is returning to England duty.
- Sterling remains in Chelsea’s “bomb squad” under Enzo Maresca.
- The winger has not played for England since 2022.
- His £325,000 weekly wages make a move difficult.
- Danny Murphy warned Sterling must accept lower pay to find a new club.
What’s next for Raheem Sterling?
Sterling will remain on the sidelines until January unless Chelsea unexpectedly reintegrate him, which appears unlikely. By then, the January transfer window could provide a lifeline, with London clubs again likely to be linked.
If Sterling hopes to make a late push for an England recall ahead of Euro 2026, regular football is non-negotiable. But that will almost certainly require a pay cut and compromise on his part — a decision that could define the final years of his career.
👉 Do you think Raheem Sterling should take a pay cut to revive his England career, or should he stay at Chelsea and see out his lucrative contract?
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