“If there was the option to go somewhere else for more game time I would be open to it”
Raheem Sterling has admitted that he may be forced to leave Manchester City in order to get more game time.
The England winger has two years left on his current deal, but has paused contract talks as he contemplates his options – opening the door to leaving City to move abroad.
The 26-year-old has insisted that he is focused on playing well and helping the Sky Blues to win trophies, but has stated that he might have to consider leaving the Etihad after losing his regular starting place.
Sterling, who has started just four games all season, is reportedly wanted by Spanish giants Barcelona and the three-time Premier League winner has explained how he is ‘open’ to a move abroad.
Raheem Sterling would be willing to leave Man City for more game time 👀 pic.twitter.com/ZNgINwpf9d
— ESPN UK (@ESPNUK) October 14, 2021
Speaking at a Financial Times Live event, Sterling said: “If there was the option to go somewhere else for more game time I would be open to it.
“As I said, football is the most important thing to me. Challenges that I have set myself from a young age and dreams as well.
“As an English player all I know is the Premier League and I’ve always thought you know maybe one day I’d love to play abroad. See how I would come up against that challenge.
“I’m not a person that’s going to complain. I’ve not tried to make it a bigger deal than it actually is. I get on with my work. Do what I need to do. And I’m just raring to go. Playing football matches regularly. Score goals regularly.”
The former Liverpool man has completed the full 90 minutes on just two occasions this season – once in the Premier League and once in the EFL Cup.
Sterling was arguably England’s best player at Euro 2020, but his club form will undoubtedly be concerning for Three Lions manager Gareth Southgate.
Unless Sterling receives confirmation that he remains an important player for Pep Guardiola moving forward, he is unlikely to commit to a new deal.
Related links:
- Raheem Sterling reflects on his ongoing battle with the tabloid press
- Dirk Kuyt slams price Man City paid for Jack Grealish
- Pep Guardiola suggests referee favoured Liverpool as James Milner escaped red card
