Robin van Persie Slams Critics of Raheem Sterling's Debut
Feyenoord manager Robin van Persie has launched a passionate defence of new signing Raheem Sterling, following widespread criticism of the winger's debut performance. Sterling, who joined the Dutch club on a free transfer after his release from Chelsea, faced harsh reviews after appearing as a substitute in Feyenoord's 2-1 victory over Telstar last Sunday.
Sterling's Rusty Return to Football
The 31-year-old English international looked understandably rusty during his half-hour on the pitch, with some Dutch media outlets comparing his display to 'Bambi on ice'. This was Sterling's first competitive match since May 2025, when he played his final game on loan at Arsenal. Prior to joining Feyenoord, he had been training away from Chelsea's first-team squad for six months before his contract was terminated.
Van Persie expressed frustration at the immediate negativity, emphasising the context of Sterling's situation. 'If you have a little sense of context, where he comes from, what he's achieved in the past, and that he hasn't had any team training for months,' the manager stated. 'I understand that there are expectations of an absolute top player, but to criticise him like that after half an hour - his first half hour after over six months - then you really don't understand anything at all.'
Van Persie Labels Criticism as Inappropriate
The former Arsenal and Manchester United striker described much of the feedback as blunt and unwarranted. 'A large part was positive, but some of it was also quite Dutch. Being blunt about everything that everyone thought wasn't right,' he remarked. Van Persie argued that judgments should be reserved until Sterling has had more time to integrate, suggesting that critics should wait five or six weeks before forming strong opinions.
'If you're five or six weeks in and you think he's not delivering, okay, then you have a point. But to throw out such strong opinions based on his first half hour, I thought, was inappropriate,' he added.
Support from Former Teammate Jack Grealish
Sterling also received backing from his former England and Manchester City teammate, Jack Grealish, who responded angrily to an Instagram post criticising the winger. The post suggested Sterling was on a downward spiral and questioned his motivation. Grealish replied, 'What a f*****g stupid Instagram post man what's wrong with you guys. Guy hasn't played or trained for so long. Ppl like u guys is what wrong with the world. Have some respect.'
Looking Ahead for Feyenoord
Sterling is expected to be included in Feyenoord's squad for their upcoming match against Twente on Sunday. Under Van Persie's management, the team currently sits second in the Eredivisie table, having secured three consecutive wins. However, they trail league leaders PSV Eindhoven by a significant margin of 14 points.
This incident highlights the intense scrutiny faced by high-profile footballers and the importance of considering context in player evaluations. As Sterling continues his journey with Feyenoord, both he and his manager will be hoping for a smoother path ahead.
