Raheem Sterling Joins Feyenoord: A New Chapter Begins

omidbasir- Raheem Sterling has officially joined Feyenoord until the conclusion of the 2025-26 season.

The 31-year-old winger became a free agent after mutually terminating his contract with Chelsea last month.

According to sources at ESPN, Sterling attracted interest from as many as 18 clubs across Europe’s top four leagues. However, he expressed a clear desire to join a club with a strong likelihood of qualifying for the Champions League. Sterling has also developed a positive rapport with Feyenoord’s head coach, Robin van Persie.

“As a free agent, I have, for the first time in a long while, the opportunity to control the next step in my career,” Sterling remarked in a statement.

“I wanted to take my time to speak with clubs and their head coaches to better understand the role they envision for me and ensure that I can add real value in this next chapter.

“After detailed discussions with Robin, I am confident that Feyenoord will provide a place where I can be happy and establish myself as a valuable member of the team.

“Playing abroad is a new challenge for me—one I am ready to embrace. Honestly, I am just excited to get started. I extend my gratitude to Feyenoord, particularly Robin and [General Manager] Dennis [te Kloese], for their patience and professionalism throughout this process.”

Sterling had 18 months remaining on his previous contract at Stamford Bridge, but he negotiated his departure as he sought a permanent move to rejuvenate his career.

Since May, he has not participated in any competitive matches and was training away from Chelsea’s first-team squad after being deemed surplus to requirements.

With 82 caps for England, Sterling has an impressive track record, having won four Premier League titles, one FA Cup, and four League Cups. His career has included notable tenures at Liverpool, Manchester City, and Arsenal.

Van Persie commented, “Naturally, it is a fantastic achievement that we have managed to convince a player of Raheem’s caliber to join us. His football resume speaks for itself: he possesses qualities that can undoubtedly change the outcome of a game. I am confident he will prove to be a significant asset to our team as we strive to achieve our goals in the second half of this season.”

Feyenoord currently holds the second position in the Eredivisie, trailing leaders PSV Eindhoven by 17 points.