From Red Devotee to Blue Icon: Sterling’s Unexpected Football Journey
In a surprising revelation that will shock fans of both Manchester clubs, Crickex can exclusively share that Raheem Sterling – Manchester City’s star winger and two-time Premier League champion – grew up as a “massive” Manchester United supporter. The England international, currently enjoying another stellar season with 23 goals across all competitions, recently opened up about his childhood allegiances in a candid interview.
Sterling’s confession comes at a fascinating time in his career. The 24-year-old has become instrumental in City’s domestic dominance under Pep Guardiola, yet he’s never managed to score against the club he once adored. “I shouldn’t really say this – not now, definitely not now!” Sterling joked with the Daily Mirror, showing self-awareness about how his admission might be received by the Etihad faithful.
The 2007 FA Cup Final: A Defining Childhood Memory
Sterling‘s earliest United memory carries particular poignancy – witnessing their 1-0 defeat to Chelsea in the 2007 FA Cup final at Wembley. The young Sterling attended the match wearing a vintage United kit, completely unaware that twelve years later, he’d be lifting trophies with their fiercest rivals.
This revelation adds fascinating layers to Sterling’s professional narrative. Since his £49 million move from Liverpool to Manchester City in 2015, he’s scored 48 goals in 122 appearances, developing into one of the Premier League’s most dangerous attackers under Guardiola’s tutelage. Yet that childhood connection to United remains an intriguing footnote in his career.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Beyond the rivalry talk, Sterling emphasized the importance of inspiring young fans, regardless of their club allegiances. “If two or three of the kids could be inspired, then that’s all I was trying to do,” he reflected. The winger, known for his social activism as much as his footballing prowess, clearly sees his platform as an opportunity to motivate aspiring athletes.
His words carry extra weight considering City’s potential to complete an unprecedented domestic treble this season. With the Premier League title secured and the Carabao Cup already in the cabinet, only Watford stand between Guardiola’s side and footballing immortality in the upcoming FA Cup final.
The Irony of Football Fandom
Sterling‘s journey from United fan to City hero encapsulates football’s beautiful unpredictability. Many professionals end up playing for clubs they once supported – but few do so for their childhood club’s arch-rivals while achieving such spectacular success.
As Crickex analysts have noted, Sterling’s development at City has been remarkable. His goal output has increased every season under Guardiola, and his all-around game has reached new heights. The winger who once dreamed of United glory is now creating his own legacy in sky blue – one that could include that historic treble in the coming days.
What This Means for Manchester Derby Dynamics
This revelation will undoubtedly add extra spice to future Manchester derbies. While Sterling has faced United numerous times since joining City, he’s yet to find the net against them – a statistic that becomes even more intriguing in light of his childhood fandom. Will breaking that duck become a personal milestone for the England international?
For now, Sterling remains focused on the immediate challenge – helping City complete their historic season. But his honest reflection about his footballing roots provides a rare glimpse into the personal journeys that shape even the biggest stars. As Crickex continues to cover Sterling’s career, this revelation adds new depth to understanding one of English football’s most compelling figures.
