Manchester City has completed the record smashing 49 million pound transfer of 20-year-old winger, Raheem Sterling from Liverpool. Leading up to the transfer, Sterling's former club had made overtures about extending his contract that ran through the end of the 2017 season. After rejecting several Man City offers for the English international, Liverpool saw the writing on the wall. Once Sterling's agent, Aidy Ward, said Sterling wouldn't sign an extension "even if they offered 900,000 pounds a week," the club finally gave in.
The problem, or danger, for Man City is the winger still has a lot of room to grow and he is the first to admit that. From The BBC.com, "The England winger believes that he will improve as a player at the Etihad after becoming his country's most expensive footballer ever.
"I'm just glad it's all over and done with and I can't wait," Sterling said. "The more quality players around you, the more quality it brings out in you."
How much quality did Manchester City get for their 49 mil? Can it find a place in the starting eleven and in what role? Despite the massive price tag, there are many who believe Sterling will be brought along slowly by coach Manuel Pellegrini and perhaps, even sat on the bench and used primarily as a sub.
The BBC reports that former Manchester City captain Rodney Marsh believes it is a "big step up for Sterling" and says that manager Manuel Pellegrini "will start him on the bench."
"The way City are lining up at the moment, Sergio Aguero is the anchor of the team," Marsh added. "So I can't see Sterling playing in a role that would affect that. With Yaya Toure and David Silva in the supporting positions he is probably going to be a wide player."
He ex-captain said, "I would not think he would be an automatic starter unless something remarkable happens in pre-season."
