After missing Chelsea’s Premier League opener against Manchester City, the 29-year-old England attacker is not included in a matchday squad for the second straight game on Thursday.
Chelsea’s A-list, which was submitted to Uefa for Thursday’s meeting at Stamford Bridge (20:00 BST), with the second leg taking place in Switzerland on August 29, does not include defenders Ben Chilwell, Wesley Fofana, or Tosin Adarabioyo.
Sterling might be included in Chelsea’s group for the Conference League group stage if they advance.
Prior to Sunday’s loss to City, Sterling’s agents stated in a statement that they were seeking “clarity” over the player’s future with the team.
Chelsea has added 11 players this summer for a total of £185 million, giving manager Enzo Maresca a group that includes more than 40 experienced players.
Following the City match, Maresca declared that he “wants” Sterling to play for Chelsea, but he also conceded that “there is not enough space” for all of his players to participate.
Since arriving at Chelsea for a £50 million transfer from Manchester City in July 2022, Sterling has made 81 appearances.
