EPL: Chelsea Boss Maresca Slams Sterling, Disasi – Cites 75-Year-Old Father’s Hard Work as Example

Story: written by Okafor Joseph September 19,2025

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has criticized Raheem Sterling and Axel Disasi, comparing their attitude in training to the tireless work ethic of his 75-year-old father, who still works as a fisherman.

The Italian tactician revealed that his father has spent over five decades fishing, working daily from 2:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., a level of dedication he believes is missing from the two Chelsea stars.

“This is real life. My father is 75 years old, and for 50 years he has worked every morning from 2 a.m. until 10 a.m. as a fisherman. I don’t see the same work rate in Sterling and Disasi,” Maresca said.

The former Leicester City manager has frozen out both players, insisting there is nothing more he can do to reintegrate them. Sterling and Disasi failed to secure transfers in the last summer window and have since been training away from the first team.

Sterling, who reportedly earns £325,000 per week at Stamford Bridge, spent last season on loan at Arsenal, while Disasi was at Aston Villa. However, their performances did not convince either club to sign them permanently.

Chelsea now shift focus to their next Premier League clash against Manchester United at Old Trafford on Saturday, but the duo remains sidelined.