Former Liverpool Star Admits He 'Didn't Like' Raheem Sterling

Dirk Kuyt, a Liverpool legend, has confessed that he "didn't like" former teammate Raheem Sterling much, despite acknowledging his exceptional talent in the Premier League.[1]

Sterling, now 31, recently ended a turbulent stint at Chelsea, where his contract was terminated in late January 2026 despite 18 months remaining, making him a free agent.[1] He chose to join Dutch club Feyenoord, managed by Robin van Persie, to "regain the joy" in his football, marking the end of his 14-year Premier League career.[1]

Kuyt, who now manages FC Dordrecht in the Dutch second division, overlapped with Sterling at Liverpool during the young winger's breakthrough. Sterling joined from Queens Park Rangers' academy in February 2010 for an initial £450,000, potentially rising to £2 million.[1]

The Dutchman's resentment stems from Sterling's controversial 2015 departure to arch-rival Manchester City. In an unsanctioned BBC interview on April 1, 2015, Sterling revealed he rejected a Liverpool contract extension, sparking fury among fans and the club. His agent later cited financial reasons for seeking a move, souring relations permanently.[1]

Kuyt admitted: "Ultimately, I didn't like him that much because he quickly moved to a big rival. But Raheem Sterling, of course, is considered a fantastic player."[1] This revelation highlights lingering tensions from Sterling's acrimonious Liverpool exit, even as he seeks a fresh start in the Eredivisie.[2]

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