Raheem Sterling says he didn’t think twice about joining Chelsea despite racial incidents in 2018



Chelsea banned a fan from their stadium for life after an incident during an English Premier League match in December 2018.

The individual was found to have used “racially offensive language and threatening and aggressive behavior” towards Sterling while he was playing for Manchester City, the club said.

Five other fans were banned for one to two years for “offensive language and threatening and aggressive behavior”.

However, Sterling says the experience “didn’t play on my mind at all” when he made his decision to join his new club.

“I cannot allow an incident by individuals to change my perception of the club,” Sterling told reporters ahead of Chelsea’s game against Tottenham on Sunday, per Reuters.

“I harbor no hatred or malice towards any individual,” Sterling added when asked if he would be willing to meet the man banned for life. “It’s something I could do right here, now, or tomorrow. This is not a problem.”

Sterling completed his move from Manchester City to Chelsea this summer after winning four league titles at Etihad.

“True Purpose”

The 27-year-old, who has excelled on the pitch, has sought to use his platform to fight racism and says his ability to help others in society is his “true purpose” away from football.

Following the racist incident in 2018, Sterling uploaded a post to social media highlighting the different ways the media talks about young black players and white players.

He argued that the media plays a role in perpetuating racial prejudice in society and has since become something of an unofficial spokesman for his generation of gamers on matters of equality.

“Obviously football is my main goal and my main talent, but it’s the other thing that I enjoy the most, which is helping people,” he added.

“I’ve moved away from the racial side and am more focused on helping and empowering young black people.”

Sterling says a lack of playing time at Manchester City prompted his move to the London club and says he is excited about the opportunity.

Chelsea won their season-opener against Everton 1-0 but now face a much tougher test against Tottenham at the weekend.