Raheem Sterling finds himself in complete isolation at Chelsea, relegated to training with the club's outcasts and subjected to harsh restrictions typically imposed for disciplinary violations.
The 30-year-old winger must take his meals in solitude and is prohibited from using the same washroom facilities as the first-team squad.
Sterling has been consigned to what the club terms its "bomb squad" alongside Axel Disasi and David Datro Fofana, with all three players denied access to standard first-team amenities.
The forward hasn't featured for Chelsea since being excluded from Enzo Maresca's plans.
Raheem Sterling and Axel Disasi have been placed in Chelsea's 'bomb squad'
|PA
During the summer transfer window, Sterling declined opportunities to join Champions League participants Juventus and Bayer Leverkusen, prioritising his family's stability in London over potential playing time abroad.
His representatives allowed Chelsea to explore options on his behalf, with the Blues presenting both European clubs as viable destinations.
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Several London-based teams were approached about Sterling's availability, including Fulham, Crystal Palace and West Ham, though none of these possibilities came to fruition.
The winger also dismissed lucrative proposals from Saudi Arabian and American clubs, maintaining his ambition to return to international football with England.
His determination to remain in the capital ultimately limited his options significantly.
Raheem Sterling had a disappointing spell on loan at Arsenal last season
| GETTYThe impasse centres on approximately £30 million still owed to Sterling under his existing contract, with both parties adopting inflexible positions regarding any potential settlement.
Chelsea appear unwilling to provide Sterling with a full payout, whilst the player shows no inclination to facilitate an easy exit for the club.
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This financial deadlock means the former Manchester City player could remain in limbo until at least January 2026, when the transfer window reopens.
Neither side seems prepared to compromise on the severance arrangements, creating a situation that benefits no one involved.
Sterling's substantial £325,000 weekly wages compound the complexity of finding a resolution.
Enzo Maresca has no use for Raheem Sterling this season, with him joining Axel Disasi and David Datro Fofana in the reserves
| PASterling intends to evaluate his circumstances following the upcoming international hiatus, with his aspirations of featuring at the 2026 World Cup now severely compromised.
The earliest possibility for competitive football appears to be the January 2026 transfer window, though such a scenario seems increasingly unlikely.
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Raheem Sterling's career looks unclear
| PAHis unsuccessful loan spell at Arsenal, where he failed to register a Premier League goal, has further complicated his predicament.
The 30-year-old's immediate prospects remain decidedly grim.