Raheem Sterling: I came to Manchester at 20 and today I am leaving as a man

The coaching staff who have played a crucial role in my development over the years. My partners have become more than just the people I take the field with. All the staff, the office staff, and the fans have tirelessly supported the team. Everyone is involved with Manchester City. I can’t tell you enough how much I respect you. What a way we have come.

I’m grateful for all the ups and downs. And the downs I’ve faced have been a test of my strength and character. It has allowed me to show the best version of myself in front of you. I came to Manchester at the age of 20 and today I am leaving as a man.

Thank you for your endless support. It has been an honor to wear a Manchester City shirt, the winger wrote on social media.

Sterling will continue his career at Chelsea. The Londoners will pay £47.5m with a further £2.5m in bonuses.