Raheem Sterling has stated that he has “no hatred or malice towards the individual” who was given a lifetime ban for racially abusing him in 2018 and that he would have no problem meeting the Chelsea supporter.
The incident happened at Stamford Bridge during a game between Chelsea and Manchester City, which the visitors won 2-0.
However, the game was overshadowed by what happened off the field.
Five people received fines from the club, and one person received a lifetime ban, but no one was charged because there was no proof that the language used was racially motivated.
After the game, Sterling posted on Instagram to criticize the reporting of young black and white players. He also made a comment on the incident, saying he “don’t expect no better.”
What Were Sterling’s Words?
When asked about meeting the person in question, Sterling, who moved from Manchester City to Chelsea in July, said to The Sun: “That’s something that I could do right here, right now or tomorrow. That’s not an issue.”
He talked about how he felt the incident made him realize there were other things he could accomplish besides playing football.
“I think that conversation opened the door for me personally in the sense it made me understand what my true purpose is other than football.” he stated.
“Of course, football is my main goal and my main talent, but it’s the other thing that gives me the most joy. That’s helping people.
“So from that incident, I’ve moved away from the racial side of it and am focused more on helping and nurturing young black people.”
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When asked if he had considered the incident before deciding to move to west London, the England international replied, “No, that’s the first time I’ve actually even remembered it.”
“It wasn’t a thing that played on my mind at all.
“I can’t let an incident from individuals change my perception of the club.”
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