Transfer Centre

Raheem Sterling confirms Manchester City exit ahead of Chelsea move

By Oliver Thomas, Senior Reporter | 13 July 2022

Raheem Sterling confirms Man City exit ahead of Chelsea move

Raheem Sterling confirms that he will be leaving Manchester City this summer ahead of his proposed move to Chelsea.

Raheem Sterling has confirmed that he will be leaving Manchester City this summer ahead of his proposed move to Chelsea.

The 27-year-old has allegedly completed his medical and is set to join up with Thomas Tuchel's squad for their pre-season tour of the USA after the Blues agreed a £50m transfer fee with the Citizens last weekend.

Sterling has since taken to social media to bid an emotional farewell to Man City supporters after seven trophy-laden years at the Etihad Stadium.

"Seven seasons. Eleven major trophies. A lifetime of memories," the England international said in a statement posted on Twitter.

pic.twitter.com/3bFDyU5E03
— Raheem Sterling (@sterling7) July 13, 2022

"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."

Sterling, who is set to become Chelsea's first signing of the summer window, leaves Man City after scoring 131 goals and registering 94 assists for the club in 337 appearances across all competitions since his £49m arrival from Liverpool in the summer of 2015.

The forward won a total of 12 trophies at the Etihad Stadium, including four Premier League titles, one FA Cup and five EFL Cups.

Chelsea are also understood to have agreed a £45m fee with the Citizens to sign Sterling's teammate Nathan Ake, who previously spent five years with the Blues between 2012 and 2017.