Raheem Sterling Facing Criticism & Calls to Leave Feyenoord OR Feyenoord: Experts Demand Exit for Struggling Raheem Sterling

Feyenoord’s gamble on Raheem Sterling has, thus far, failed to yield the expected returns, and the pressure is mounting on the veteran winger. Following a largely ineffective performance in Sunday’s 1-1 draw against Ajax in De Klassieker, Sterling is facing a barrage of criticism from Dutch media and analysts, raising serious questions about his future with the Rotterdam club.

Sterling, who joined Feyenoord as a free agent in January 2026 after a mutual termination of his contract with Chelsea, was substituted after just 55 minutes against Ajax. The move, made by manager Robin van Persie, underscored the winger’s struggles to impact the game and sparked a candid assessment of his current form.

Van Persie acknowledged the challenges Sterling faces in regaining match fitness after a period of inactivity, but stressed the urgency of the situation. “Those two worlds need to align sooner rather than later,” Van Persie stated after the match, referring to the need for Sterling’s physical condition to match his on-field contributions. “We are working on that, where the most important thing is winning matches during this period of Raheem getting fitter and fitter.”

However, the patience of Dutch pundits appears to be wearing thin. Theo Janssen, speaking on Studio Voetbal, delivered a scathing critique of Sterling’s performance. “I find it regrettable to say, but it just can’t happen,” Janssen declared, highlighting the winger’s inability to make a meaningful impact.

Wim Kieft echoed Janssen’s sentiments, stating that Sterling was the worst of Feyenoord’s four attacking players against Ajax. “There were four wingers on the field today – Godts, Berghuis and Hadj Moussa – and Sterling was by far the worst. It’s just nothing. We all seek it to be something. At the beginning, you still arrive up with excuses, such as that he wasn’t fit. But this simply can’t even compete at the level of the Dutch competition.”

Sonny Silooy, also appearing on Studio Voetbal, labeled Sterling’s performance a “blunder,” adding to the growing chorus of disapproval. He emphasized the awkwardness of the situation for Van Persie, who personally reached out to Sterling to convince him to join Feyenoord. “That’s really embarrassing. It’s also painful for Robin. Since he made contact with Sterling, called him. And then you secure this in return… I don’t think he expected this.” Silooy suggested that Sterling should be immediately removed from the starting lineup, even if Leo Sauer isn’t a perfect replacement. “If Sauer isn’t good, he’s still better. Sterling is known for his speed. But he simply doesn’t get past anyone anymore. Not even Makkelie.”

The criticism extended beyond television analysis. Valentijn Driessen, in a video item for De Telegraaf, described Sterling’s 55-minute appearance as a “complete failure.” Driessen pointed out Sterling’s lack of contribution in both attack and defense, suggesting he appeared more interested in enjoying the sunshine than participating in the match. “He played for 55 minutes, but this was a complete failure. He didn’t do anything offensively and didn’t do his defensive duties either. It seemed like he was enjoying the sun more than being focused on the game. If you can’t make your mark in such a game – or even do anything good – you’d better go play for a veterans team.”

The mounting pressure is reflected in a recent online poll conducted by soccernews.nl, asking whether Feyenoord should quickly part ways with Sterling. The results, even as not quantified in the provided source, suggest a significant level of discontent among fans.

Sterling’s arrival at Feyenoord was intended to provide a much-needed boost to their attack and bolster their chances of securing Champions League qualification. However, his struggles to regain form and adapt to the Eredivisie have raised serious doubts about his ability to contribute to the team’s goals. The former England international’s once-renowned explosive pace appears to have diminished, and he has yet to demonstrate the sharpness and effectiveness that made him a key player for Liverpool and Manchester City.

The situation presents a significant challenge for Van Persie, who must balance the need for results with the desire to integrate a high-profile player into his squad. The manager’s comments suggest he remains hopeful that Sterling can turn things around, but the growing criticism and the team’s need for consistent performances may force him to make difficult decisions regarding the winger’s role in the team. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Sterling can rediscover his form and justify his place at Feyenoord, or if his spell in Rotterdam will be remembered as a disappointing chapter in a once-illustrious career.