Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior has offered a significant update on the futures of two senior players who were previously exiled from the first-team squad, revealing contrasting paths for Raheem Sterling and Axel Disasi as the January transfer window approaches its conclusion.
Sterling's Future Remains Uncertain Amid Ongoing Talks
Rosenior confirmed that the club remains "in conversations" with Raheem Sterling about his future at Stamford Bridge, though no resolution has yet been reached. The 31-year-old winger, who earns a reported £325,000 per week on a contract that runs until June 2027, was deemed surplus to requirements by previous manager Enzo Maresca at the start of the season.
"We're in conversations with Raheem at the moment about different things going on in his career," Rosenior stated. "Hopefully that will be clearer in the next couple of days."
Despite being linked with potential moves to Premier League rivals Fulham and West Ham United, Sterling has yet to secure a transfer away from Chelsea with under two weeks remaining in the January window. Rosenior acknowledged he hopes for a resolution regarding the England international's situation soon, regardless of the outcome.
Disasi Returns to First-Team Training
In a more positive development for Chelsea supporters, Rosenior confirmed that French defender Axel Disasi has returned to first-team training after his own exile under the previous management. The centre-back participated in training sessions on Tuesday as he begins his reintegration into the squad.
"My decision on Axel: I had a really good meeting with him a couple of days ago," Rosenior explained. "I said to the players when I came in that it's a clean slate for everybody so it was only right for me to chat with him. He's behind in terms of his fitness, his match fitness and we'll work with him."
The manager emphasized his philosophy of giving every player a fresh start since taking charge, which has paved the way for Disasi's return to the training ground as Chelsea prepare for crucial upcoming fixtures.
Champions League Ambitions Remain High
Ahead of his first Champions League match in charge of Chelsea against Pafos, Rosenior expressed his determination to succeed in Europe's premier club competition. The Blues currently sit 13th in the group phase table, just two points away from the top-eight positions that would allow them to skip the play-off round.
"Your dream, as a player or manager, is to be at the top of the game," Rosenior said. "The Champions League is a signal of that. It's not about me. My focus is on winning the game and being successful here."
When asked about the prospect of securing a third European title for Chelsea, the manager added: "It would be great. Hopefully third time lucky, but you're not lucky to win a Champions League. I never limit the ambitions of my players. We have to focus on this game."
The contrasting situations of Sterling and Disasi highlight the transitional period Chelsea are experiencing under their new manager, with Rosenior balancing squad management decisions with the immediate demands of European competition as the club seeks to improve their standing in both domestic and continental football.
