Manchester City have confirmed Raheem Sterling has joined Chelsea, bringing an end to a magnificent seven-year stay with the club.
The 27 year old England international made 339 appearances for Manchester City, scoring 131 goals.
His 91 Premier League goals are second only to Sergio Aguero, and Raheem Sterling exits Manchester City as our 11th highest goal-scorer of all time (all competitions) – just one goal behind equal ninth-placed Fred Tilson and Billy Gillespie on 132.
Sterling is our second-highest scorer of all-time in European football, with 24 Champions League goals second (again) to Aguero’s 43.
Reflecting on his time at the Club, he expressed his sincere thanks in an open letter to fans.
“Seven seasons, eleven major trophies, a lifetime of memories,” Sterling said.
“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.”
Director of Football Txiki Begiristain added: “Raheem has been a wonderful servant for Manchester City, and he leaves our club on the best terms possible having helped us win yet another Premier League title.
“He has played a very important part of the successes we’ve had in recent seasons and his dignity on and off the field has been an inspiration to many.
“He will be forever part of Manchester City and we wish him well in the next chapter of his career and he departs knowing he will always be welcomed at this football club.”
