Sterling: That’s why I left City and Chelsea designed for me
Raheem Sterling said his new club Chelsea suits him perfectly and
feels “designed for him” because of the development the team made
under coach Thomas Tuchel and because going there gives him
the chance to reconnect with his London roots.
The 27-year-old England striker joined from Premier League champions
Manchester City last month, becoming Chelsea’s first signing under
new owners, led by Todd Boley.
Tuchel, who took over at Stamford Bridge in January 2021, led Chelsea
to winning the Champions League and Club World Cup, as well as two
FA Cups and one League Cup.
Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Sterling said: “I had a few other options
but Chelsea were designed specifically for my personal goals. It means
a lot to my family and my roots.”
“The club has reached the final four or five times in the last few years.
It shows how competitive Chelsea are and after the arrival of the new
owners it made sense.”
Sterling, who grew up in northwest London, moved to the Liverpool
academy from Queens Park Rangers in 2010 when he was 15 and started
his football career on Merseyside before moving to City in 2015.
On this, Sterling said: “I went to Liverpool and showed my abilities.
I went to City and lived the dream. Now I return to London in full maturity.
I feel like I made the whole journey,” according to “Reuters”.
Sterling cemented his place at City’s front line, scoring 131 goals in
339 appearances, winning the League Cup, the League Cup four times
and the FA Cup once.
However, he had limited playing time last season and said he could not afford
to “waste time” trying to secure a place in the starting line-up.
He explained: “Everyone strives to achieve success. I have so many great
memories and moments in my career with City. Even though I reached
the top of my level, I wasn’t playing regularly which I can’t accept.
In situations like this you have to make the right decision for yourself and your family.”
Chelsea, who started their Premier League campaign with a 1-0 win at Everton,
host Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday.
