Manchester City have a world class squad capable of winning titles: Raheem Sterling

Raheem Sterling feels Manchester City have a squad that can compete for the biggest prizes every year

New Manchester City signing Raheem Sterling has expressed his delight at joining the club in his first interview since completing the £49-million transfer from Liverpool, a record for an English player. The 20-year-old said he was looking forward to linking up with the quality players in the City squad and thanked his former managers, including Brendan Rodgers, for the part they have played in his development as a player.

The England international said that it was the world class players at the Etihad that convinced him to sign for the club. In the interview posted on City’s official website, Sterling said: “I can’t wait to get on the training field. The thing that excites me most is the world class squad we have and knowing we have a squad that is capable of winning things year in, year out. The more quality players that are around you, the more quality it brings out in you.”

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Sterling had the same to say when it came to the facilities at his new club.

“I’ve looked around the new training ground and the facilities here are top class. There’s everything you need here to take you to the next level so there’s no excuses,” Sterling told.

The former Liverpool winger disclosed that a brief talk with City goalkeeper Joe Hart had given him an idea to how things are at the Etihad.

“I spoke briefly to Joe on the last England trip,” Sterling said. “He just told me what a really good football club this is and how nice the fans are – nothing too serious, but it was a bit of a heads up.”

Sterling looks back fondly on his time at Liverpool

Sterling also thanked his managers at Liverpool, past and present, for helping him reach his present stature.

“It has been a long journey from QPR and I’d like to thank a few people who have helped me along the way.

“I’d like to thank Rafa Benitez for taking me to Liverpool as a 15-year-old. That was a massive step for me and a new challenge. Also to Kenny Dalglish for showing such faith in me and putting me in at such a young age,” Sterling said.

A rift with Brendan Rodgers has been talked about as one of the main reasons for Sterling’s decision to leave Anfield after five years, but the 20-year-old had only kind words to say about the Englishman.

“I want to thank Brendan Rodgers for giving me a chance, an opportunity in the first team and then my full debut – against City funnily enough – and giving me a real chance to cement a place in the first team and show the world my talents,” Sterling told the City website.

‘I’m glad it’s over!’

Sterling expressed delight that the whole transfer was behind him and thanked his agent for making the move happen.

“I’m just glad that it’s all over. It’s a good feeling and this is really happy time for me and my family.

“I would like to thank all the people around me – my mum and sisters, my management team and Aidy Ward (Sterling’s agent) for helping me focus and get where I am today. I just wanted to say a big thank you to everyone,” Sterling told.