Where can Raheem Sterling join after leaving Chelsea?

Raheem Sterling's departure from Chelsea in January 2026 marked the end of a challenging chapter for the 31-year-old English winger. The England international has left the Blues after a difficult spell.

After joining from Manchester City in the summer of 2022 for a hefty £47.5 million fee, Sterling spent three and a half seasons at Stamford Bridge. His time there began promisingly, with solid contributions in his debut campaign, but form dipped under subsequent managers, culminating in a complete freeze-out by Enzo Maresca.

He hadn't featured competitively since May 2024, was demoted to the infamous "bomb squad," and even endured an unproductive loan spell at Arsenal in 2024-25.

As Chelsea's highest earner on around £325,000 per week, his exit came via mutual agreement to terminate the remaining 18 months of his contract (originally set to expire in summer 2027), freeing him as a free agent to seek a fresh start and revive his career.

Where can Raheem Sterling join after leaving Chelsea?

At 31, Sterling remains a proven Premier League talent with pace, dribbling flair, and experience from top clubs and England duty. His preference for staying in London has been noted, but he's reportedly open to opportunities elsewhere to secure regular football. Several clubs have shown interest, offering potential landing spots where his skills could shine once more.

He could join Fulham, the ambitious west London outfit looking to bolster their attacking options with a local hero who knows the Premier League inside out and could add creativity to their forward line without disrupting squad harmony.

Another strong possibility is West Ham United, where his experience and direct style would complement their dynamic wide players, providing competition and depth in a team pushing for European qualification under a manager who values versatile attackers.

Sterling might thrive at Napoli, the Serie A champions eager to add proven quality to their squad; a move to Italy would offer a new league challenge, warmer climate, and chance to compete in Champions League football while escaping intense English scrutiny.

Finally, Crystal Palace could be an ideal fit, with their high-pressing, energetic setup suiting his attributes perfectly-he'd slot in as a key wide threat at Selhurst Park, helping elevate their mid-table status while staying in familiar London surroundings.