Manchester City winger Raheem Sterling has completed his move to Chelsea for a reported deal of £50 million. Sterling joined City from Liverpool when he was 20 and has played 337 games for the club in his 7-year stint.
The 27-year-old has now penned a five-year contract with Chelsea with an option for another year. Sterling, who earned £300,00-a-week at City will now see a significant hike in his salary at Stamford Bridge.
The outgoing City player had reportedly conveyed his wish of leaving to the club last month itself, with a host of clubs immediately circling around him.
It is being cited that missing out from the starting eleven for major games last season had taken a toll over Sterling who decided to leave. Chelsea, with their new owner Todd Boehly were quick to close a £50 million deal for the wimger.
Raheem Sterling’s farewell message for City fans
The winger in an emotional letter for Manchester City wrote:
‘Seven seasons. Eleven major trophies. A lifetime of memories.
‘To the coaching staff who have played a massive role in my development over the years, to my team-mates who have become more than just those I share a pitch with, to the backroom staff, to the office staff, to the fans who have tirelessly supported the team, and to everyone associated with Manchester City, my respect for you couldn’t be greater.
‘What a ride it’s been.
‘I am thankful for the ups and downs, as it’s the downs that have, at times, have tested my strength and resolve, and enabled me to stand here in front of you as the best possible version of myself.
‘I arrived in Manchester a 20-year-old. Today, I leave as a man.
‘Thank you for your endless support. It’s been an honour to wear the shirt of Manchester City.’
— Raheem Sterling (@sterling7) July 13, 2022
Sterling enjoyed a trophy-laden seven seasons at City, winning 10 honors which included 4 Premier League titles. The winger had a huge contribution to City’s success, scoring 131 goals and assisting 94 in 337 games.
England international to join Chelsea’s preseason camp
Thomas Tuchel will welcome Raheem Sterling aboard Chelsea’s preseason tour where they are slated to play Club America, Charlotte FC and Arsenal in the United States.
Chelsea lost out to Barcelona in the race to sign Leeds United winger Raphinha and hence worked on war footing for Sterling’s move.
Boehly facilitated Romelu Lukaku’s Inter loan last month, and is planning to provide a fresh attack for Tuchel. Raheem Sterling was convinced with Chelsea’s project from day one after Boehly himself handled the negotiations per multiple reports.
Chelsea will now focus on signing a couple of defenders to replace Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen. Meanwhile, Sterling will fly out to Los Angeles for the Blues’ preseason.