‘Probably best he’s sold at this point’, ‘Can’t have him go on a free next year’ – Man City fans react as Raheem Sterling Seek ‘Assurances’ to re-sign a new contract

Manchester City fans have been reacting to a post on Twitter which relays an update on the future of Raheem Sterling at the Etihad.

The England winger is set to enter the final year of his contract and, having lost his regular starting position, has been linked with a move this summer with Barcelona, Arsenal and Tottenham, Real Madrid touted as potential destinations.

The attacker’s current contract at the Etihad expires in 2023, meaning he could begin negotiations about a potential free move away from City in just nine months’ time. He is either expected to renew his deal or to leave in the summer transfer window.

A new five-year deal would take Sterling to age 32, and by that point the chance to test himself in another of Europe’s major leagues might have passed.

According to a report by Rob Dawson writing for ESPN, Sterling is keenly aware that the next contract he signs will be the most important of his career. He also has concerns about his place in Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City plans for the future and will not settle for sitting on the bench.

Despite contributing 16 goals and seven assists in Premier League and Champions League fixtures this season, the 27-year-old has not always found himself first choice under Pep Guardiola.

Rob Dawson adds that if Sterling indicates he’s unlikely to seriously consider signing a new contract, City would have to listen to offers this summer to avoid losing him for free in 2023.

The report was shared on Twitter by City Xtra and it attracted plenty of attention from the club’s supporters.

“Then he needs to go because he’s been nowhere near the level required for two years. Watched him with yesterday with England as well and he was abysmal.”
Credit: @KDBallondor

“I am a big fan of Sterling and have defended him on here many times. But if he finds himself sitting on the bench, that is down to him. If he goes to another ‘big’ club he will also find himself on the bench if he doesn’t perform. I hope he stays.”
Credit: @dannyyoung35

“Probably best he’s sold at this point, he seems mentally signed out from City. Would be better for all parties so we have plenty of time to scout replacements.”
Credit: @FodenFanatic47

“Love him but if he doesnt sign he can leave..we will be fine even if he goes. Cant have him go on a free next year..”
Credit: @thecityzensfc

“You aint gonna be on the bench next season. You’ll be on the right assisting Haaland..”
Credit: @CityXtraPod

“Raz on the right with a proper striker in the team. Deadly. Do not let him go City..”
Credit: @Arton9320

“Give him play time guarantees and a slight wage increase, he will stay. He wants to play with Haaland just as much as any other player, and if Gabi leaves its more gametime for Raz. Needs to stay.”
Credit: @Ethan4707

“This coming from the man who didn’t show up to our parade without an excuse. Just sell him. Lost any respect I had. £60m and get his £300k p/w off our books.”
Credit: @Jacob4rmstrong

“He has to score goals if he wants to be a starter.”
Credit: @chiba_mavisto