After Raheem Sterling gave Chelsea the lead against his old team, Manchester City, in their encounter, he decided to disregard Mauricio Pochettino’s pre-match request.
Raheem Sterling made his way back to the Etihad on Saturday night after spending £47.5 million to join the West London club from Premier League winners City.
Shortly before the intermission, Sterling gave his team the lead with a clean finish from close range after Nicolas Jackson’s excellent ball had allowed him to cut back inside.
In a show of respect that may have prompted concerns for manager Mauricio Pochettino, Sterling declined to celebrate his first goal at the Etihad since departing in 2022.
The Argentine manager was questioned about the possibility of Sterling and Palmer scoring at their former haunting ground ahead of Saturday’s highly anticipated match in Manchester.
He remarked, “Scoring is the most beautiful feeling.” It’s challenging to play for a different team and maintain something inside of you without celebrating.
“When you defend another badge, you need to celebrate because you are part of another history. You showed respect when you were there and gave everything to the club, the badge, and the people.”
Sterling disobeyed orders to celebrate even though he was told he “needed” to.
In an interview with Sky Sports following the game, he explained why he didn’t completely celebrate.
Sterling said, “I scored, and scoring is a good feeling.” “Remember, this is your old club, so try not to push yourself too hard. I had a terrific time at City, and I’m well-known.”
Following the final siren, Pochettino lauded the forward’s effort as the Blues emerged victorious after a fiercely contested point.
“It’s important, his experience and of course an offensive player needs to score to feel confident and he was working hard for the team,” he stated.
“He played strong defense, was always there to support the team when it mattered, and was in a position to assist [Ben] Chilwell and the defensive line.
Yes, a significant performance. He’s making me joyful and assisting us in making progress.