Raheem Sterling is already facing an uncertain future at Feyenoord just nine weeks after arriving, according to reports in the Netherlands.
NOP NIGERIA reports that the 82-cap England national football team winger, 31, joined the Eredivisie side on a free transfer in February shortly after his £325,000-a-week contract was terminated by Chelsea.
Raheem Sterling’s time at Stamford Bridge ended sourly after he was frozen out by former manager Enzo Maresca and made to train away from the first team for more than six months.
A move abroad under Robin van Persie was supposed to revive the former Manchester City forward’s career. However, Dutch outlets AD and Sportsnieuws claim the club already believe he has “no future” in Rotterdam after just six appearances.
File photo of Feyenoord forward, Raheem Sterling.
Sterling arrived as a calculated gamble following concerns over his recent fitness and form. He was also viewed internally as a dream signing capable of helping Feyenoord chase leaders PSV Eindhoven in the title race. Instead, the club now sit 19 points off the pace, with Sterling registering no goals and one assist in 333 minutes.
Supporters have reportedly labelled him the “weakest link” and even adopted the nickname “Raheem the Dream” sarcastically in the stands. The winger is still building match fitness after a long spell without regular football, but reports suggest the club have already formed a verdict on his long-term role.
Van Persie publicly backed the player after criticism followed a quiet debut. Sterling was left on the bench during Sunday’s 1-1 draw with NEC Nijmegen, with teenager Tobias van den Elshout starting on the left. The manager later insisted a minor ache influenced the decision.
Before signing, Daily Mail Sport reported interest from at least 18 European clubs. Talks with Van Persie and promises of regular football convinced Sterling to accept a short-term deal.
Sterling said: “As a free agent, I’ve had, for the first time in a long time, the opportunity to control the next step in my career.
“I wanted to take my time to speak with clubs and their head coaches to better understand the role they envisioned for me and ensure that I can add real value in this next chapter.
“Having spoken in great detail with Robin, I’m confident that Feyenoord is a place I can be happy and establish myself as a valued member of the team. Playing abroad is a whole new challenge for me – and one I’m ready to embrace. Honestly, I’m just excited to get started.”
