Raheem Sterling's Feyenoord Debut Draws Mixed Reactions in the Netherlands
Raheem Sterling's highly anticipated debut for Feyenoord on Sunday was met with a 'disappointing' assessment from Dutch analysts, despite the team securing a 2-1 victory over Telstar. The England international, who recently left Chelsea after his contract was terminated, made his first appearance since May 2025, coming on as a substitute just after the hour mark.
Underwhelming Performance Despite High Expectations
ESPN analyst Kees Luijckx, a former Netherlands Under-21 international, expressed disappointment with Sterling's display, noting that the winger is not yet in condition to face top Eredivisie teams. 'I did enjoy all the commotion of the past few weeks, but in the end, it was all a bit disappointing,' Luijckx stated. 'He just hasn’t quite got the capacity to really show anything yet, not even against Telstar. It’s Raheem Sterling, of course, and that’s why you give him the chance, because of his status, but it’s not really possible yet.'
Luijckx emphasized that while the crowd showed immense hope, with every touch of the ball exciting fans, Sterling must eventually make an impact, something he believes is possible against lesser teams but not yet against rivals like Ajax.
Positive Outlook from Van Persie and Sterling
In contrast, Feyenoord manager Robin van Persie, the former Arsenal and Manchester United striker, was more pleased with his new signing. 'He was good and threatening a few times, so I’m very happy with that,' Van Persie said. Sterling himself remained optimistic, acknowledging his lack of match fitness but focusing on the team's success. 'This feels good. We won, that’s the most important thing. A great debut. I haven’t played for a while, but I’ve been trying to stay fit. We’re just taking it step by step to get fitter,' he remarked.
Challenges and Preparations for the Move
Sterling's transition to Feyenoord involved unique challenges, including a training camp move to Belgium while awaiting his work permit for the Netherlands. 'It was a good introduction to the team. The trip to Belgium was a great experience, getting to know the guys better,' Sterling shared. 'I’m here for a new challenge. We have some exceptional players, guys with a lot of talent. Now it’s all about consistency.'
Ahead of the match, Van Persie highlighted Sterling's exceptional quality in training but tempered expectations due to fitness concerns. 'Raheem trained last Tuesday, for the first time with the group. That was his first time in a group in several months,' Van Persie explained. 'In my opinion, he’s a player of exceptional quality. He showed that in those training sessions. How match-fit are you after not playing for six months? It depends on how he gets through tomorrow. That looks positive. But we have to be careful with him.'
Van Persie added that Sterling needs time to build up to playing 90 minutes, a goal that won't be achieved immediately but will be pursued responsibly.
