Raheem Sterling’s status for Chelsea’s upcoming match has become a point of interest following a statement from his representatives. They highlighted Sterling’s strong working relationship with new manager Enzo Maresca and expressed expectation that he would be involved in Sunday’s fixture at Stamford Bridge.

The statement revealed that Sterling had returned to England two weeks early to engage in individual training and had enjoyed a positive pre-season under Maresca. “He is committed, as ever, to delivering at the highest level for Chelsea FC and the fans, who he holds in high regard,” it read. The expectation of his involvement in the weekend’s game was bolstered by his inclusion in official pre-match materials.

Chelsea’s significant investment in the transfer market this summer, totaling around £185 million for 11 new signings, has resulted in a squad of over 40 senior players. Sterling, who joined Chelsea from Manchester City for £50 million in July 2022, has made 81 appearances for the club. His early arrival and positive pre-season performances had led to anticipation of his role in the upcoming match.

However, Maresca addressed the media about his decision to leave Sterling out of the squad. “The manager has to make some decisions. Sometimes players don’t like it, that’s normal,” Maresca told Sky Sports. “Just a technical decision, no more than that.”

Chelsea, under co-controlling owners Behdad Eghbali and Todd Boehly, has spent approximately £1.5 billion on transfers since their takeover, with a strategic focus on acquiring younger players with high resale value. Sterling was among the first to join the club after the ownership change.

The statement from Sterling’s representatives noted ongoing positive dialogue with Chelsea regarding his future at the club and expressed hope for clarity on the situation. As Sterling and his camp await further details, they remain focused on supporting his ambition to start the new season on a strong note.

Mohammad Samim Faizad, a judoka representing Afghanistan at the Paris Olympics, has tested positive for the anabolic steroid stanozolol, the same substance that disgraced sprinter Ben Johnson at the 1988 Seoul Olympics. Faizad’s provisional disqualification from the Games was announced on Saturday by the International Testing Agency (ITA).

Faizad, 21, provided a sample during his opening bout, which resulted in a positive test for stanozolol. The judoka, competing in the men’s 81-kilogram weight class, was defeated by Austria’s Wachid Borchashvili on Tuesday. Following the positive test, Faizad has been provisionally suspended in accordance with the World Anti-Doping Code and the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) anti-doping rules.

“The athlete has been informed of the case and has been provisionally suspended until the resolution of the matter,” the ITA stated. This suspension prevents Faizad from competing, training, coaching, or participating in any activities during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Faizad was the sole athlete based in Afghanistan on the six-member Afghan team competing in Paris, which included three men and three women. His suspension follows the earlier doping case of Iraqi judoka Sajjad Sehen, who was the first athlete to be suspended from the Paris Olympics over doping. Sehen tested positive for the banned anabolic steroids methandienone and boldenone on July 23, following a preliminary test match.

The doping cases cast a shadow over the judo events at the Paris Games and highlight ongoing concerns about performance-enhancing drugs in competitive sports. The ITA continues to investigate both cases as part of its commitment to ensuring fair competition and upholding the integrity of the Olympic Games.

In a poignant moment for tennis fans worldwide, Andy Murray’s illustrious career came to an end with a defeat in the Olympic doubles event. The British tennis star, who has been a prominent figure in the sport for over a decade, bowed out in the quarter-finals alongside his partner Joe Salisbury, losing to the Croatian duo of Marin Cilic and Ivan Dodig.

The match, held at the Ariake Tennis Park in Tokyo, was a hard-fought battle that saw Murray and Salisbury fall in straight sets, 6-4, 7-6 (7-2). Despite their best efforts, the British pair were unable to overcome the experienced Croatian team, who demonstrated superior coordination and resilience.

For Murray, this Olympic loss marks the end of a storied career filled with remarkable achievements. The 34-year-old has been a three-time Grand Slam champion, two-time Olympic gold medalist, and former world number one. His journey through professional tennis has been defined by his tenacity, skill, and an unwavering commitment to the sport.

“It’s a tough way to go out, but I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished,” Murray said in a post-match interview. “The Olympics have always held a special place in my heart, and to have my final match here is fitting in many ways.”

Murray’s decision to retire from professional tennis had been hinted at in recent months, as he struggled with recurring injuries and the physical demands of the sport. His hip surgery in 2019 was a significant turning point, and while he made a valiant effort to return to top form, the challenges proved insurmountable.

“Andy’s contributions to tennis are immeasurable,” said his doubles partner Joe Salisbury. “It’s been an honor to play alongside him. He’s inspired so many, and his legacy will continue to influence the sport for years to come.”

The reaction from the tennis community has been overwhelmingly supportive. Fellow players, coaches, and fans took to social media to express their admiration and gratitude for Murray’s impact on the sport. Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic, Murray’s longtime rivals, all shared heartfelt messages, praising his determination and sportsmanship.

Murray’s career highlights include his historic win at Wimbledon in 2013, ending Britain’s 77-year wait for a men’s singles champion. He repeated this feat in 2016, further cementing his place in tennis history. His Olympic gold medals in 2012 and 2016 also stand out as major milestones, showcasing his ability to perform under immense pressure.

As Murray steps away from professional play, he has expressed a desire to remain involved in tennis, potentially through coaching or mentoring young players. His influence on the next generation is expected to be profound, given his experience and the respect he commands within the sport.

“While this is the end of my playing days, it’s not the end of my journey in tennis,” Murray remarked. “I look forward to new challenges and opportunities to give back to the sport that has given me so much.”

Andy Murray’s retirement marks the close of an era in tennis, but his legacy will undoubtedly endure. His resilience, passion, and achievements will continue to inspire future generations, ensuring that his impact on the sport is felt long after his final match.