‘I leave as a man’ — Sterling bids farewell to Man City
Chelsea FC have announced the signing of Raheem Sterling on a five-year deal from Manchester City.
In a statement on Wednesday, the London team revealed that Sterling signed a four+year contract with the club.
The deal is reportedly worth £47.5 million.
The English footballer had earlier taken to social media to pen an emotional farewell message to Manchester City.
The 27-year-old winger announced his departure in a tweet on his Twitter account on Wednesday.
The England international, who joined Man City from Liverpool in 2015 for £44 million, appreciated his teammates, coaches and administrators at the Etihad for their “massive role in my development over the years.”
Sterling added that he “arrived in Manchester a 20-year-old” and “today I leave as a man.”
“Seven seasons. Eleven major trophies. A lifetime of memories,” he wrote.
“To the coaching staff who have played a massive role in my development over the years. To my teammates 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 involved with Manchester City. My respect for you couldn’t be greater.
“What a ride it’s been. I am thankful for the ups and the downs, as it’s the downs that have, at times, 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.”
(The Cable)