Raheem Sterling has been excluded from Chelsea’s squad for their Europa Conference League play-off first leg against Servette.
This marks the second consecutive match where the 29-year-old England forward has been left out, following his absence from Chelsea’s Premier League opener against Manchester City.
Defenders Ben Chilwell, Wesley Fofana, and Tosin Adarabioyo were also omitted from Chelsea’s A-list submitted to UEFA for Thursday’s match at Stamford Bridge (20:00 BST), with the second leg set to take place in Switzerland on 29 August.
If Chelsea advances, they may include Sterling in their squad for the Conference League group stage.
Ahead of Sunday’s defeat to Manchester City, Sterling’s representatives released a statement seeking “clarity” on his future at the club.
Chelsea have spent approximately £185 million on 11 signings this summer, leaving manager Enzo Maresca with a squad exceeding 40 senior players.
Maresca expressed his desire to keep Sterling at Chelsea after the City game but admitted that “there is not enough space” for all players to participate in matches.
Since joining Chelsea from Manchester City for £50 million in July 2022, Sterling has made 81 appearances for the club.