Raheem Sterling refused to discuss his future ahead of Manchester City’s Champions League semi-final first leg against Real Madrid and denied having to change his game at the club.
After signing from Liverpool in controversial circumstances in a £49m deal in July 2015 he has gone on to win eight major trophies. Things have not turned out too bad for the 27-year-old, who has also lodged himself in the England team.
But the England forward’s current deal at the Etihad Stadium is due to expire at the end of next season.
There has been plenty of talk about Sterling heading to Spain and testing himself in LaLiga. But he refused to entertain the talk on Monday.
Speaking at a press conference, Sterling said: “At this period it would be selfish to speak of any contract situation. We’ll see how it goes.”
Sterling said his full focus was on the clash with the Spanish giants as City, beaten finalists last year, look to take another step towards a first Champions League crown.
He said: “Every season it’s always a challenge. It’s the one we’ve not got our hands on and we’re focusing on.
“It’s a special competition, every young player wants to be here. Every time I play I do my best, the music and atmosphere is always special.
“As a forward, I want to be playing, scoring, assisting. Contributing is massive, that’s how you get confidence. I’m happy to get a part of the team.”
No change for Sterling
Asked if his role under Pep Guardiola had changes he said: “I wouldn’t say I’ve had to change, it’s been the same from starting here. The squad has changed, but I’ve not had to change my game.”
Sterling has had to contend with being ousted from Guardiola’s team on a number of occasions this term. He has made 20 starts in the Premier League and has been used as a sub on a number of occasions.
Asked if he change anything to get back into team, he said: “It’s a team full of quality players, it makes me thrive.
“If they’re…