Chelsea Football Club is facing increasing scrutiny over its treatment of Raheem Sterling and Axel Disasi, two senior players currently exiled from first-team activities. The Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) has stepped in, raising concerns about player welfare and the potential breach of FIFA regulations amid fears of “abusive conduct.”
PFA Steps In Over Player Welfare Concerns
The PFA has formally entered discussions with Chelsea to address the status of Sterling and Disasi, both of whom have been marginalized under new head coach Enzo Maresca. According to reports from BBC Sport, the players’ union is investigating whether the club is providing adequate training opportunities and adhering to global standards concerning player treatment.
FIFA regulations state that isolating players without just cause could amount to abusive conduct, potentially giving affected players legal grounds to terminate their contracts. The PFA aims to ensure the two sidelined stars are allowed to maintain peak physical condition and are not being unfairly treated due to their exclusion from the squad.
Sterling and Disasi Among Chelsea’s ‘Bomb Squad’
Sterling and Disasi are among a group of players reportedly labeled as surplus to requirements and separated from the first team—commonly referred to as the club’s “bomb squad.” While several high-profile names, including Ben Chilwell, Christopher Nkunku, and Joao Felix, were moved on over the summer, Sterling and Disasi remained despite Chelsea’s efforts to offload them.
Sterling, who joined the Blues from Manchester City for £47 million in 2022, has recorded 19 goals and 15 assists in 81 appearances. After a disappointing loan spell at Arsenal last season, he returned to Chelsea, only to be frozen out. Disasi, signed for £35 million from Monaco in 2023, spent the latter half of last season on loan at Aston Villa, where he featured in just 10 matches.
Contractual Stalemate Could Cost Chelsea Millions
The financial implications of releasing either player are significant. Disasi is under contract until 2029 and earns £100,000 per week, while Sterling’s deal—worth over £400,000 per week with bonuses—runs for another two years.
Chelsea has limited options, especially with Sterling reportedly rejecting a move to Saudi Arabia, where the transfer window remains open until September 23. This leaves the club with two high-earning players unlikely to contribute on the pitch and raising off-field legal and ethical issues.
FIFA Regulations Loom Large
FIFA’s stance on player welfare mandates that clubs must allow out-of-favor players access to adequate training facilities and support. Failing to do so could be viewed as constructive dismissal, opening the door for contract terminations on the grounds of “just cause.”
The PFA’s intervention suggests that Chelsea may be treading dangerously close to this line. The union’s inquiry is focused on whether the club’s actions fall within acceptable professional standards and regulatory guidelines.
What’s Next for Chelsea, Sterling, and Disasi?
As the standoff continues, all parties are left in a state of uncertainty. The January transfer window may provide a solution, but until then, Chelsea must navigate not only a potential PR crisis but also the legal risks associated with the treatment of two high-profile professionals.
For Sterling and Disasi, the immediate concern lies in maintaining their fitness and readiness, should opportunities arise elsewhere—or should the situation at Stamford Bridge shift.
