Manchester City’s Raheem Sterling reaches decision on future

Sterling struggles for game-time

It has been a tricky few months for Raheem Sterling.

Starring at Euro 2020 for England, he has failed to reproduce that form at club level, and in many ways has not been afforded the opportunity to.

Top performance at home ❤️🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 pic.twitter.com/OwJ7CxFaCr

— Raheem Sterling (@sterling7) November 12, 2021

Surrounded by a host of talent even before the British transfer record was broken to bring Jack Grealish to the Etihad Stadium in the summer, Sterling has slipped down Pep Guardiola’s pecking order, with the 26-year-old having made just three Premier League starts so far this season.

Even against Manchester United, a game which his side dominated, Sterling found himself an unused substitute as Pep Guardiola opted not to make any changes, depriving him further of valuable minutes.

As such, it is unsurprising to hear rumours linking the England man with a move away in search of first-team football, but there seemed little substance to them.

Sterling asks for Barcelona move

Now, as per Graeme Bailey of 90min, Sterling has requested a January move, with a loan to Barcelona previously having been mooted.

At 26 years old, Sterling still has plenty to offer any prospective club, and a move abroad to reignite his stuttering career may be an enticing prospect for the Manchester City man.

Raheem Sterling has reportedly informed #ManCity that he wants to leave for Barcelona on loan in January, after not seeing himself in Pep Guardiola’s long-term plans.

— City Xtra (@City_Xtra) November 20, 2021

However, Sterling only has 18 months left on his contract at the Etihad Stadium, meaning that any temporary move would decrease his value as his deal ticks down. Should he return with only 12 months left, the Citizens will be left in a weak bargaining position.

Would he be a good fit for Xavi and Barcelona, or should another club come in for his services?

Read more:

Revealed: Xavi’s predicted debut Barcelona line-up, featuring a shock inclusion in attack

Midfield doubt included as Man United squad pictured departing for Watford