Chelsea Football Club have officially announced the departure of forward Raheem Sterling, bringing an end to the player's extended period away from the first-team setup at Stamford Bridge.
Sterling's Chelsea Exit Confirmed
The club released a statement confirming that Sterling, 31, has left by mutual agreement, concluding his three-and-a-half-year tenure with the Blues. The England international last featured in a competitive match for Chelsea in May 2024, having spent the subsequent season on loan at Arsenal.
Months of Separation from First Team
Sterling had been training separately from Chelsea's senior squad for the entire season, with his situation finally resolved just five days before the transfer window closes. He was the last remaining member of Chelsea's so-called 'bomb squad' after defender Axel Disasi returned to first-team duties following Liam Rosenior's appointment as manager.
The club's statement read: "Raheem Sterling has today departed Chelsea Football Club by mutual agreement, bringing to an end three-and-a-half seasons as our player, having signed in the summer of 2022 when he was transferred from Manchester City. We thank Raheem for the contribution he made while a Chelsea player and wish him well for the next stage in his career."
Transfer Window Developments
The resolution comes after Sterling reportedly turned down loan moves to Juventus and Bayer Leverkusen during the summer transfer window, preferring to remain in London to stay close to his family. Napoli, who face Chelsea in an upcoming Champions League fixture, are among the clubs reportedly interested in securing his signature.
Manager's Perspective
Ahead of the European clash, Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior declined to provide updates on Sterling's situation, stating: "No, at the moment, I've said what I've had to say on Raheem. He's a player I have massive respect for; huge respect for him as a person and for what he's achieved in the game. Now is not the right time to speak about his situation."
Sterling's Chelsea Career in Review
Sterling arrived at Chelsea in the summer of 2022 as the first major signing under the Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital ownership regime, with the club paying £47.5 million to secure his services from Manchester City on a five-year contract.
During his time at Stamford Bridge, the former Liverpool forward made 81 appearances across all competitions, scoring 19 goals and providing 15 assists. He featured regularly during a turbulent period that saw Chelsea employ multiple managers including Thomas Tuchel, Frank Lampard, Graham Potter and Mauricio Pochettino.
His exile began when Enzo Maresca took charge ahead of the 2024-25 campaign, and despite a loan spell at Arsenal last season where he remained a peripheral figure, Sterling now has the opportunity to seek a fresh start elsewhere in his professional career.
The 82-cap England international's departure marks a significant moment in Chelsea's ongoing squad restructuring as the transfer window approaches its conclusion.
