Chelsea Manager Liam Rosenior to Discuss Futures of Sterling and Disasi

Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior has announced his intention to engage in discussions with Raheem Sterling and Axel Disasi concerning their futures at Stamford Bridge.

Both players have been training separately from the first-team squad, having been considered surplus to requirements by former manager Enzo Maresca. Sterling, who had a challenging loan spell at Arsenal last season, is under contract until 2024, with a weekly salary of £325,000 ($436,000). Meanwhile, Disasi’s contract runs until 2029, following a loan experience at Aston Villa during the latter half of the previous season.

Reports indicate that Sterling is keen on securing a permanent exit from Chelsea this January, amidst interest from clubs such as West Ham and Fulham.

In a press conference on Tuesday, Rosenior stated, “I will have conversations with them. Raheem has had an outstanding career, and I have immense respect for him. Axel is a player I have admired for a long time.

“With the number of matches we have and the various responsibilities I’ve had, I haven’t had the opportunity to discuss these matters yet, but I aim to do so in the coming days.”

As the January transfer window remains open, Rosenior emphasized that he plans to thoroughly assess the squad he has inherited before considering any potential reinforcements. He acknowledged the need for dialogue with both the players and the club regarding the future of Sterling and Disasi, stating, “This is a priority for me.”

Rosenior’s immediate focus lies on the Carabao Cup semifinal first leg against Arsenal, with a late fitness decision pending on Cole Palmer. The England international has previously exhibited impressive form, scoring 43 goals and providing 29 assists during his first two seasons after joining from Manchester City in 2023. However, injury setbacks have hindered his performance this season.

Rosenior believes there is still much more to come from the “world-class” talent, though he cautioned that unlocking his full potential may take time. He remarked, “Cole is a special talent; my role is to connect with him, understand what brings out the best in him, and that process takes time.

“I am not here to critique his form or performances under previous management; I am genuinely excited to work with him. The remarkable thing about Cole is that he already possesses world-class abilities at just 23 years old, and there is so much more to come. I eagerly anticipate working with him regularly, as he has undeniable potential and ability that is truly impressive.”

Palmer did not participate in Saturday’s 5-1 FA Cup victory over Charlton as a precautionary measure after dealing with a groin issue and a stubbed toe earlier in the season. So far, he has scored four goals in 12 appearances this season, but remains without an assist.

Rosenior expressed his intention to provide Palmer with the freedom to reach new heights in his game, stating, “Good players can thrive in various roles. I have seen Cole play as a false nine, on the right flank, on the left, and even in a more advanced position. He is undeniably a world-class player. I want to give him the freedom to pursue what he loves, which is to create and score goals.”