Former Manchester United forward, Michael Owen, has set a clear condition for Chelsea winger Raheem Sterling if he wants to revive his professional football career.
According to Owen, the 29-year-old is trapped in a difficult situation after failing to secure a move away from Stamford Bridge during last summer’s transfer window. Sterling’s decision to stay has backfired, as he is now completely isolated from the Chelsea first team.
Sterling’s Struggles at Chelsea
Reports from Stamford Bridge reveal that Sterling has been frozen out of the squad, with strict measures taken against him. The England international has reportedly been ordered to eat meals separately from his teammates and even use a different toilet facility—a clear indication of how far he has fallen out of favor with the club’s management.
The winger, who joined Chelsea from Manchester City in 2022, has made 59 appearances for the London club and scored 14 goals. Despite this, he has struggled to live up to expectations and last season spent time on loan at Arsenal, where his performances were widely considered disappointing by Gunners’ fans.
Why Sterling Refused to Leave
Sterling’s situation worsened because he rejected multiple offers that could have revived his career. Clubs like Fulham and Crystal Palace were interested but could not meet his huge weekly wage demands.
He also turned down big-money moves to Saudi Arabia and Major League Soccer (MLS), even though those leagues were willing to match his current earnings. His refusal to take a wage cut left him stuck at Chelsea, where he is now sidelined.
Michael Owen’s Advice to Sterling
Michael Owen, speaking to Metro UK and 247Bet, stressed that Sterling’s only chance to continue playing top-flight football is to accept a significant wage reduction and join a smaller Premier League side.
“It’s a difficult one with Raheem. He’s on big wages, and he didn’t quite grasp his chance at Arsenal. Sadly, the only way for him now is probably down to Crystal Palace, West Ham, that type of club,” Owen explained.
Owen went further to say that Sterling’s wealth should give him the freedom to prioritize football over money:
“Some might say, ‘Well, you’re rich enough already.’ If he’s already very wealthy and doesn’t need the money, maybe he would [consider the wage cut].”
What Lies Ahead for Sterling?
At this point, Sterling’s career is at a crossroads. If he wants to keep playing regularly, he will have to accept a step down to mid-table clubs like West Ham or Crystal Palace. Otherwise, his career at the top level may come to an abrupt end despite his talent and experience.
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