Raheem Sterling pens emotional goodbye to Man City

Raheem Sterling has bid an emotional farewell to Manchester City as he prepares to complete a £50m move to Chelsea.

The winger has entered the final year of his contract at the Etihad Stadium and had expressed his desire to pursue a fresh challenge elsewhere.

Having completed a medical on Tuesday, it has been reported that Sterling was flown out to Florida to join the west Londoners' pre-season tour ahead of being unveiled as a Chelsea player.

The England international has all but confirmed his imminent exit in a message to City and their supporters on social media.

"Seven seasons, eleven major trophies, a lifetime of memories," Sterling wrote on Twitter.

"To the coaching staff who have played a massive role in my development over the years, to my teammates who have become more than just those I share a pitch with, to the backroom staff, to the office staff, to the fans who have tirelessly supported the team, and to everyone involved with Manchester City, my respect for you couldn’t be greater."

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He continued: "What a ride it’s been.I am thankful for the ups and the downs. As it’s the downs that have, at times, tested my strength and resolve, and enabled me to stand here in front of you as the best possible version of myself.

"I arrived in Manchester a 20-year-old, today, I leave as a man. Thank you for your endless support. It’s been an honour to wear the shirt of Manchester City."