If we include all competitions, Sterling has scored 126 goals for the club, a phenomenal record by anyone’s standards. One person under no illusions when it comes to Sterling’s importance is Guardiola, with his winger now into the final 18 months of his contract.
Pep Guardiola said: “Nobody doubts how important it is. What I want is [day after day] to play good. Not just him, but all the players. If we count the amount of games he has played since we are together, it is a lot. He is a key player. About the future, I don’t know what is going to happen. The club decides. I give my opinion but of course the club takes the decision all the time. I have known Raheem for six seasons; this season he was outstanding in goals, assists and his contribution to the team and for himself. During that period there are highs and lows, it is part of life.”
With the season nearing the final straight and strikerless City still in three competitions, Guardiola will be relying on Sterling more than ever.