Raheem Sterling has signed a five-year contract with Chelsea after leaving Manchester City.
The England international has been a significant contributor for Manchester City over the last seven seasons, scoring in double figures in each of those campaigns and winning nine major awards, including four Premier League titles.
Sterling scored 25 goals last season as Manchester City won the Premier League and advanced to the UEFA Champions League semi-finals.
Sterling is one of just eight players to have scored 80 or more Premier League goals since the 2016-17 season, averaging 22 in all competitions over the last five seasons, as well as an average of 10 assists.
On returning to London to play for the Blues, Sterling said: “First and foremost, it’s a pleasure to be here.
“I’ve obviously achieved a lot in my career so far, but there is still so much more to achieve and I’m really looking forward to doing that in a Chelsea shirt, under Thomas’s management.
“London is my home and where it all started for me, and it’s amazing I now have the opportunity to play in front of friends and family week in, week out at Stamford Bridge. I’m really looking forward to meeting the fans there soon.
“I do want to take the opportunity to thank Todd, Behdad, the ownership group, Thomas, and all involved in the process of getting me here.
“I can’t wait to get going now and continue to do my talking on the pitch.”
Chelsea owner Todd Boehly welcomed Sterling’s move to the London club with a message saying:
“Raheem Sterling is a serial winner and his signing is an important step in strengthening our squad. We are delighted for Raheem to return to London with Chelsea, and we look forward to seeing his world-class talent on display at Stamford Bridge,”
Earlier, Sterling posted a heartfelt goodbye message to his former teammates and the club’s staff and fans on his social media account.
“Seven seasons. Eleven major trophies. A lifetime of memories. 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,” Sterling wrote.
