There was hope that Sterling, who has been wearing No. 7 at Stamford Bridge, would keep it for the upcoming season. Although he was originally granted the number 19 jersey upon signing from Wolves, the winger has now had it taken away from him and given to summer recruit Pedro Neto. Trevoh Chalobah, who was also forced out, has had his number 14 jersey stolen by fellow newcomer Joao Felix.

This new information adds another aspect to the Sterling controversy, which has been heating up recently. His representatives issued a statement demanding an explanation for the England international’s exclusion from Sunday’s Premier League season opener against Manchester City, following which Chelsea withdrew him from the matchday roster. The 29-year-old reportedly started practicing at home on Friday after hearing he would have a tough time getting any playing time this season, rather than at the Cobham facility.

Sterling and left defender Ben Chilwell have been sent to train separately from the rest of the group, as confirmed by new Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca. Maresca admitted that the players would be better off finding other clubs before the transfer window closes on August 30.

Sterling is trying to figure out how to get out of the English capital and is thinking about his alternatives. Juventus of Serie A and Premier League rival Aston Villa are allegedly interested in signing him, and he might play in the Champions League next season if accepted.