19 Interesting Facts About Raheem Sterling You Should Probably Know

Dive into the fascinating world of football with our in-depth look at Raheem Sterling, one of the sport’s most dynamic players. Uncover 19 intriguing facts about his life, career, and impact on the game. From his humble beginnings in Kingston, Jamaica to his record-breaking transfer fees and his commendable stance against discrimination, this article offers a comprehensive view of Sterling’s journey.

Player Profile

Full Name	Date of Birth	Place of Birth	Height	Position	Current Club	Joined	Contract Expires
Raheem Shaquille Sterling	December 8, 1994	Kingston, Jamaica	1.70 m	Left Winger	Chelsea FC	July 13, 2022	June 30, 2027

In the realm of football, few names spark as much recognition and respect as Raheem Sterling. Born in the heart of Kingston, Jamaica, Sterling’s journey to the pinnacle of football is a story of determination, talent, and resilience. This article explores 19 captivating facts about Sterling, shedding light on the man behind the footballer and offering a glimpse into his life off the pitch. From his early years in Jamaica to his rise to stardom in the Premier League, we delve into the life of this remarkable player, uncovering the experiences that have shaped him and the achievements that have defined his career.

19 Interesting Facts About Raheem Sterling

Born in Kingston, Jamaica

Raheem Sterling was born on December 8, 1994, in Kingston, Jamaica. He spent his early childhood in the bustling city, soaking in the vibrant culture and developing his love for football. His Jamaican roots have played a significant role in shaping his personality and his approach to the game. Despite moving to the UK at a young age, Sterling has always maintained a strong connection to his Jamaican heritage.

Athletic Family

Sterling was born into an athletic family. His mother was a former athlete for the Jamaican national athletics team. Her passion for sports and her dedication to her craft had a profound influence on young Raheem. It was this early exposure to the world of sports that sparked his interest in football. Sterling’s mother’s athletic background not only influenced his career choice but also instilled in him the discipline and determination necessary to succeed in professional sports.

Tough Childhood

Despite his family’s love for sports, Sterling’s childhood was far from easy. His family struggled with poverty in Jamaica, and he tragically lost his father to violent crime. These hardships were a significant factor in his family’s decision to move from Jamaica to the UK when he was just 5 years old. The challenges Sterling faced during his early years have shaped his character and given him a unique perspective on life and football.

Early Start with Queens Park Rangers

Even at a young age, Sterling’s talent for football was evident. By the age of 10, he was already playing in the youth league for Queens Park Rangers. His exceptional skills and determination set him apart from his peers. His time at Queens Park Rangers was instrumental in his development as a footballer, providing him with the foundation for his future success.

Liverpool’s Smart Decision

Recognizing his potential, Liverpool FC made the smart decision to sign the talented young player. They paid Queen’s Park Rangers £450,000, a decision that would prove to be a great investment as Sterling went on to become one of the club’s star players. His time at Liverpool allowed him to develop his skills further and introduced him to the world of professional football.

European Debut at 17

Sterling’s career progressed rapidly, and by the age of 17, he had already made his debut in a major international football match. This achievement is a testament to his skill and dedication to the sport. Making his European debut at such a young age not only showcased his talent but also demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure.

International Games

Over the course of his career, Sterling has represented England 82 times and scored 20 goals for the Lions. His performances on the international stage have earned him recognition as one of England’s top players. Representing his country on the international stage has been a significant part of Sterling’s career, and his contributions have played a key role in many of England’s successes.

Awards and Recognition

Sterling’s hard work and talent have not gone unnoticed. He has been awarded the Young Player of the Year, the title of Golden Boy, Footballer of the League, and Player of the Month. These awards are a testament to his skill and impact on the field. Each award marks a milestone in Sterling’s career and serves as recognition of his contributions to his club and country.

Great Attacker

One of the reasons Sterling is so popular is because of his attacking prowess. He plays as a winger and attacking midfielder, positions that allow him to utilize his speed and agility to outmaneuver opponents and create scoring opportunities. His ability to break through defenses and create chances for his team has made him a valuable asset to his club and country.

Golden Boy Award

In 2014, Sterling’s talent was recognized internationally when he was awarded the Golden Boy award. This prestigious award is given to the best young player in Europe, further cementing Sterling’s status as one of the top players in the world. The Golden Boy award is a testament to Sterling’s talent and potential, and it marked a significant milestone in his career.

Record Transfer Fee to Manchester City

In July 2015, following a lengthy dispute over a new contract, Sterling was signed by Manchester City. The transfer fee was potentially worth £49 million, making it the highest transfer fee ever paid for an English player at the time. This record-breaking transfer highlighted Sterling’s value as a player and marked the beginning of a new chapter in his career.

Campaigner Against Discrimination

Off the field, Sterling is known for his activism. He is a vocal campaigner against discrimination and was appointed MBE in 2021 for his services to racial equality in sport. His efforts to combat racism in football have had a significant impact on the sport and society as a whole. Sterling’s activism has not only raised awareness about the issue of discrimination in football but also inspired others to take a stand against it.

Unique Running Style

Sterling is known for his unique running style, which he credits to his mother, a former athlete for the Jamaican national athletics team. His distinctive style, characterized by a low center of gravity and quick, short strides, allows him to maintain control of the ball while moving at high speeds.

Celebrity Friends

Sterling has a number of celebrity friends, including Oasis frontman Noel Gallagher. His friendships with celebrities from various fields reflect his popularity and influence beyond the world of football.

Love for Cars and Dogs

With a huge footballer’s salary, Sterling has been able to treat himself to lots of luxury cars. He also has a love for dogs, and he often shares pictures of his pets on social media. His love for cars and dogs gives us a glimpse into his life off the pitch.

Most Goals in a Season

Sterling’s most successful campaign in terms of goals came with Manchester City in 2019/20, when he hit the back of the net 31 times in all competitions, including his best Premier League tally so far of 20. This record-breaking season showcased Sterling’s goal-scoring abilities and solidified his status as one of the top forwards in the world.

Most Appearances for Pep Guardiola

Sterling has made more appearances for Manchester City under manager Pep Guardiola than any other player. His consistent performances and ability to stay fit made him a key player for Guardiola’s team during his time at Manchester City.

Sterling’s Family

Sterling’s mother, Nadine Clarke, was a former athlete for the Jamaican national athletics team. She was one of the fastest women in the country during her prime, and her technique transferred well over to her son. Sterling’s father was murdered in Jamaica when Sterling was two years old. Sterling has three beautiful children: a daughter, Melody Rose, whom he welcomed with his ex-girlfriend, Melissa Clarke, in 2012, and two sons, Thiago and Thai-Cruz, whom he shares with his current partner, Paige Milan.

Transfer to Chelsea

In July 2022, Sterling made a move from Manchester City to Chelsea in a deal worth £47.5m. Chelsea’s manager as of 2022, Thomas Tuchel, expressed his excitement about the transfer, stating that Sterling was their number one transfer priority and that he was “super happy” to land the forward. Sterling’s transfer to Chelsea marked a new chapter in his career and further solidified his status as one of the top players in the world.

Conclusion

Raheem Sterling’s journey from a young boy in Jamaica to one of the most recognized footballers in the world is truly inspiring. His story is a testament to the power of determination, hard work, and resilience. As he continues to make his mark in the world of football, there’s no doubt that there will be many more interesting facts to add to this list in the future.