Raheem Sterling leaves Chelsea and signs with Feyenoord, bringing Premier League experience and attacking firepower to the Eredivisie.
Raheem Sterling has officially signed with Dutch giants Feyenoord on a deal running until the end of the season, following his departure from Chelsea by mutual consent. The former England international, 31, agreed a settlement with Chelsea worth over £300,000 per week for the remaining 18 months of his contract.
Sterling explored multiple options before committing to Feyenoord, who sit second in the Eredivisie under manager and former Manchester United and Arsenal striker Robin van Persie.
“As a free agent, I’ve had the chance to control the next step in my career,” Sterling said. “I wanted to understand each club’s vision for me and ensure I can contribute meaningfully. After detailed discussions with Robin, I’m confident Feyenoord is the right place to embrace a new challenge abroad and enjoy this next chapter.”
Van Persie welcomed the addition of Sterling, highlighting his ability to change games: “Convincing a player of Raheem’s calibre to join us is a fantastic achievement. He brings experience, quality, and leadership that can help us reach our goals in the second half of the season.”
Reports suggest roughly 18 clubs across Europe expressed interest in Sterling. Ultimately, Feyenoord’s competitive ambitions and Van Persie’s plan for Sterling’s role convinced the winger to move to Holland.
Sterling’s move also marks the end of a turbulent period at Chelsea. After joining from Manchester City in July 2022, he played 59 of 76 possible Premier League matches under four different managers. Loaned to Arsenal after being deemed surplus under Enzo Maresca, Sterling struggled to impress before being placed in Chelsea’s transfer list last summer.
His arrival in the Eredivisie is generating excitement in Holland, where the English Premier League is highly popular. Experts note that players like Sterling bring not only skill but also leadership and professionalism, which can significantly benefit Feyenoord on and off the pitch.
With his Premier League experience and winning mentality, Sterling could become a key figure in Feyenoord’s push for Champions League qualification and help elevate the club’s profile internationally.