Raheem Sterling Eyes England Return Under New Manager
Raheem Sterling has expressed his desire to break back into the England national team, citing his confidence in Enzo Maresca’s system at Chelsea.
The 29-year-old winger has not featured for England since the 2022 Qatar World Cup, but believes he can thrive under Maresca’s guidance.
Sterling, who excelled at Manchester City playing in a similar style, is hopeful that his form at Stamford Bridge will lead to a recall for the national team.
“I love playing for England,” Sterling said. “It’s one of the best feelings you can ever have. To see the boys out there (at Euro 2024) brought me joy. To be honest, the only games I watched were the England ones.”
Sterling last appeared for England in December 2022 in the World Cup quarter-finals. After featuring heavily in Chelsea’s United States tour, he said: “I’m looking forward to getting back in the England set-up, that’s for sure.”
Sterling’s last outing came for England at the 2022 World Cup, but he has been frozen out since.
Chelsea kickstart their Premier League season at home to City, who Sterling scored against last season home and away. That included in the 4-4 draw at Stamford Bridge.
Asked about Maresca’s philosophy being similar to Pep Guardiola’s and if that can help him succeed, Sterling said: “Best out of me. Best out of the team. He has come in and stamped his authority, the way he wants to play.”
Sterling started two of Chelsea’s five friendlies in the United States, coming on as a substitute in the other three. He has shown some positive signs since getting to work under Maresca and said: “I do see great potential within the team.”
The Chelsea star is actively looking forward to the day he returns to the national team.
He believes Enzo Maresca’s philosophy will get the best out of him and the Chelsea team.
Sterling is confident that Maresca’s system will help him succeed and eventually earn a recall to the England national team.
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