Sterling: I can’t wait to play with world class players

Raheem Sterling says he cannot wait to play alongside so many world-class players after completing his record-breaking transfer to Manchester City.

The 20-year-old England international became British football’s most expensive player on Tuesday when he signed a five-year contract at the Etihad Stadium to complete a move from Liverpool which will be worth up to £49million.

“It’s a good feeling and this is really happy time for me and my family,” Sterling told the club’s official website.

“I’m just glad it’s all over and done with and I can’t wait to get on the training field. The thing that excites me the most is the world class squad we have and knowing we have a team that is capable of winning things year in, year out.

“The more quality players that are around you, the more quality it brings out in you so I can’t wait to get started and play alongside them.”

Sterling, who will wear the number seven shirt, was also grateful to his previous managers despite the acrimony his transfer generated.

“It has been a long journey from QPR and I’d like to thank a few people who have helped me along the way,” he said.

“I’d like to thank Rafa Benitez for taking me to Liverpool as a 15 year-old – that was a massive step for me and a new challenge. Also to Kenny Dalglish for showing such faith in me and putting me in at such a young age.

“I want to thank Brendan Rodgers for giving me a chance and an opportunity in the first team, giving me my full debut – against City funnily enough – and giving me a real chance to cement a place in the first team and show the world my talents.

“Finally, I’d also like to thank all the people around me – my mum and sisters, my management team and (agent) Aidy Ward for helping me focus and get where I am today. I just wanted to say a big thank you to everyone.”

Sterling is City’s record signing, surpassing the sums previously paid for Carlos Tevez and Sergio Aguero.

He began his career at QPR and joined Liverpool for an initial fee of £600,000 as a 15-year-old in 2010. The forward was handed a senior debut as a 17-year-old and was twice named the club’s young Player of the year.