Sterling and Chelsea Part Ways Amicably as Forward Eyes Fresh Start

Raheem Sterling has left Chelsea by mutual consent after reaching an agreement to terminate his contract early, bringing an end to his three-and-a-half-year spell at Stamford Bridge in a move that offers clarity and opportunity for both player and club.

The 31-year-old England international still had 18 months remaining on his £325,000-a-week deal, but both sides agreed a settlement that allows Sterling to move on while enabling Chelsea to reduce their wage commitments. Sterling will receive a payout, though the figure is understood to be less than the more than £20m he would have earned had he remained for the duration of his contract.

Chelsea confirmed the decision in a statement, saying: “We thank Raheem for the contribution he made while a Chelsea player and wish him well for the next stage in his career.”

Sterling joined Chelsea from Manchester City in 2022 in a £47.5m transfer and went on to make 81 appearances for the club. While his time in west London included flashes of his trademark pace, movement and experience, he has not featured in a competitive match for Chelsea since May 2024.

In recent months, Sterling had been training separately with a group of players at the club’s Cobham training base after failing to secure a move during the summer transfer window. Despite that uncertainty, interest in the winger remained, with clubs including Juventus and Bayer Leverkusen exploring potential deals. A proposed move to Fulham was also discussed but ultimately did not materialise.

Sterling, who began his professional career at Liverpool and has won 13 major trophies across his career, is now focused on the next chapter. It is understood he would prefer to remain in London, but he is open to opportunities both in England and abroad as he looks to relaunch his career in a new environment.