Raheem Sterling has secured a short-term move to Dutch football after agreeing to represent Feyenoord until the close of the current campaign.
The wide attacker became available during January following a consensual separation from Chelsea, which included a financial agreement covering the remaining 18 months of his deal, previously valued above £300,000 per week.
At 31, the former Manchester City player chose to step away from England after reviewing a broad range of possibilities across multiple leagues.
New environment and conversations with the coach
Operating without contractual ties gave the forward unusual freedom to determine his next destination, allowing extensive talks with potential employers and their technical leaders.
He explained that careful discussions were important to clarify expectations, responsibilities, and how he could contribute meaningfully during this stage of his journey.
Detailed dialogue with head coach Robin van Persie proved decisive, with the player expressing confidence that the Rotterdam side offers both personal comfort and a clear sporting purpose.
Club ambitions and league context
The Dutch outfit currently occupies second position in the Eredivisie standings, trailing pace-setters PSV by 17 points as the season enters its latter phase.
Van Persie praised the acquisition, highlighting the attacker’s ability to influence matches and expressing belief that his experience will strengthen the squad’s push toward its objectives.
According to information shared with BBC Sport, interest came from roughly 18 sides in England and elsewhere, yet the prospect of top-level domestic competition, European qualification, and a defined tactical role ultimately drew the player to the Netherlands.