‘Really strange’ – Football analyst criticises Chelsea over controversial decision

Former Arsenal player and football analyst Paul Merson has been highly critical of Chelsea’s handling of the Raheem Sterling situation.

The England winger has been dropped from the squad by manager Enzo Maresca and has been told he has no future at Stamford Bridge.

The former Manchester City winger demanded clarity over his future and the Blues have since informed him that he will be sold this summer and that he has no place in the new manager’s plans.

Chelsea have a number of wingers at the club and with Wolves’ latest signing Pedro Neto, another winger has been added to their huge squad.

Merson has criticised Chelsea’s handling of the events surrounding the Sterling debacle.

In an interview with Sky Sports, the Arsenal legend expressed his astonishment at the events at Stamford Bridge and what Chelsea should not have done.

‘It’s rare that you get rid of players you already have, and Raheem is one of them’, he said.

‘He’s better than some of the wingers at Chelsea, there’s no doubt about that.

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“I find it really strange. I hope the manager is not dictated to from above and that he says what they want him to say. Because when you are the manager of a big football club like Chelsea that wants to win games, you have to do it your way.

‘It’s not a good start so far, if I’m honest. It’s like a soap opera… but it’s not looking good – (previous manager Mauricio) Pochettino was out of work for a while and ultimately he can’t wait to leave Chelsea.’

Raheem Sterling has no future at Chelsea under new manager

The Blues want to find a solution as soon as possible with only a week left in the transfer window.

They want the player to leave the club permanently this summer, but it remains to be seen which club will make an offer for the 29-year-old.

Sterling has experience at the top level and his numbers have been impressive throughout his career.

He could be a major signing for many Premier League clubs and with the club keen to sell him this summer, he could be available for a bargain.