Image Credits: Imago Images
Raheem Sterling’s move to Feyenoord was meant to be a fresh start.
Instead, it has quickly turned into a waiting game.
The former Premier League winner joined the Dutch side after terminating his Chelsea contract during the January window.
It was a surprise switch.
Sterling had spoken to several clubs before choosing Feyenoord.
He wanted regular football again after a long period without minutes in England.
But his situation has not changed much since the transfer.
The 31-year-old has still not trained with his new teammates.
He was not involved when Feyenoord beat Go Ahead Eagles 1-0.
He was not even present in regular training sessions.
From a Liverpool perspective, this story feels familiar.
Fans at Anfield know how quickly a player’s rhythm can fade without consistent football.
Sterling has not played for six months.
That lack of match sharpness makes his return even more complicated.
Feyenoord also face pressure to integrate him quickly.
They are fighting on multiple fronts this season.
They need attacking depth and experience.
Sterling was brought in to provide both.
But before that can happen, the club must first solve the issue keeping him on the sidelines.
That issue is related to work permit restrictions in the Netherlands.
Because of this, Sterling cannot train normally with the squad yet.
Feyenoord have had to find a workaround.
Manager Robin van Persie explained the situation clearly.
He said, “That’s allowed abroad. We’re doing it for him, but I also want to work on our team development. We can have some good conversations and do something fun together.”
To deal with the problem, Feyenoord arranged a training camp in Belgium. Sterling will join the squad there and finally begin sessions.
Van Persie also confirmed when fans can expect him to start training. He said, “He’ll start training the day after tomorrow.”
However, the Dutch coach warned that a return to matches will not be immediate.
He added, “We’ll see each week when he’s fit for a match. That will take some time, but that seems logical to me, since he hasn’t played for six months.”
For now, Sterling’s restart remains a slow process.
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