Raheem Sterling has officially turned down the opportunity to join Bayern Munich during the closing stages of the 2025 summer transfer window. The 30-year-old winger opted to remain at Chelsea, even though he is no longer part of manager Enzo Maresca’s long-term plans at Stamford Bridge.
Bayern Munich’s Interest in Sterling
Bayern Munich’s approach came at the same time they were negotiating a loan deal for Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson. While discussions were primarily centered around Jackson, the Bundesliga champions also expressed strong interest in bringing Sterling to Germany.
For Sterling, the prospect of moving to a European giant like Bayern Munich could have offered a way to revive his career. His form has dipped in recent seasons, especially after spending last year on loan at Arsenal. However, Sterling made the bold decision to decline the offer, with personal and family reasons playing a central role. According to reports, the England international did not want to uproot his family to a new country or leave them behind for an extended period.
Sterling’s Struggles at Chelsea
Sterling’s current situation at Chelsea is far from ideal. Since returning from his loan spell at Arsenal, he has found himself sidelined from the first-team setup. The former Manchester City star has been training separately from the squad, a clear indication that Maresca does not see him as part of his immediate plans.
The situation escalated last week when the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) reportedly contacted Chelsea over the treatment of the player. This followed Sterling’s own claims that he had been forced to train at an unusual time — as late as 8:21 p.m. — further highlighting the strained relationship between the player and the club’s hierarchy.
Kompany Speaks Out on Former Teammate
Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany, who shared the pitch with Sterling during their time at Manchester City, commented on the winger’s uncertain future. Speaking to Metro, Kompany expressed empathy for both Sterling and Chelsea’s coaching staff.
“It’s a difficult situation because on one hand, I respect Enzo Maresca and everyone at Chelsea. I understand that as a manager, these decisions are never easy,” Kompany said.
“At the same time, Raheem is someone I played alongside, and that bond will always remain. It’s interesting because last year I had Leroy Sane in my squad here at Bayern, and both he and Raheem were among the deadliest attackers in the Premier League during our time together at City,” he added.
Hope for a Comeback
Despite Sterling’s rejection of Bayern’s approach, Kompany expressed hope that his former teammate could still turn things around.
“The only thing I can wish for him at this stage of his career — and 30 is still a good age for a winger — is that he finds the right environment to show his quality again. Hopefully, he can land in a place that truly suits him, where he can play regularly and make the impact we all know he is capable of,” Kompany concluded.
What Lies Ahead for Sterling?
For now, Sterling’s priority is his family, a factor that heavily influenced his decision to stay in London. His future at Chelsea, however, remains highly uncertain. Unless he can win back the trust of Maresca and reclaim a spot in the first team, Sterling may be forced to explore new opportunities in the upcoming transfer window.
With his experience, pace, and past record in the Premier League, Sterling still holds significant value. Whether that value will be realized at Chelsea, or elsewhere, is a question that fans and pundits alike will continue to debate in the months ahead.
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