Rio Ferdinand claims Raheem Sterling’s new ‘biggest problem’ has nothing to do with Chelsea

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Raheem Sterling’s future at Chelsea appears to be bleak, but Rio Ferdinand believes that his biggest problem has nothing to do with the Blues.

Sterling has been cast aside by Enzo Maresca, with the experienced winger being put into the ‘bomb squad’ at Stamford Bridge.

Sterling has been at the heart of controversy lately after being forced to train away from the first-team squad late in the evening, leading to complaints over Chelsea’s treatment of him.

The PFA ended up getting involved in Chelsea’s handling of the former Manchester City winger, ensuring that all the basic requirements were being met so that he is training suitably.

However, even though he appears to have no future at Stamford Bridge under Maresca, Ferdinand believes he has a bigger issue.

Raheem Sterling’s ‘biggest problem’ is England, not Chelsea

Sterling spent last season on loan at Arsenal, but failed to impress under Mikel Arteta, which left him looking for a permanent home throughout the summer.

Despite interest from Crystal Palace and Fulham, Sterling remained at Chelsea, knowing he wouldn’t receive any game time.

On the latest Rio Ferdinand Presents, the Manchester United legend laid out Sterling’s biggest issue right now, which is his desire to play internationally.

“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.”

Sterling has made 82 appearances and scored 20 goals for the Three Lions throughout his career, having been a pivotal squad member at times.

However, he hasn’t played for England since the 2022 World Cup and has never been selected by Thomas Tuchel due to his lack of game time.

Raheem Sterling will likely have to cut his Chelsea wages to move

Sterling is earning £325,000 per week to train in Chelsea’s ‘bomb squad,’ which is a stumbling block for any potential transfer away from the club.

Danny Murphy warned Sterling that he will likely need to take a pay cut to make any move happen at this stage in his career, and he will have to make that decision.

He will be stuck at Chelsea until January at the earliest, but if he hopes to make a late push for an England call-up, he will need to play regularly in the second half of the season.

TBR Football previously revealed that Sterling wants to remain in London for family reasons, but that is narrowing down his options, which makes his wage structure even more important.