Cricket's focus is often on team performances rather than individual accolades, unlike football where stars like Harry Kane and Lionel Messi are constantly in the spotlight. The debate over who will win the Ballon d'Or next year has already begun, with World Cup final appearances being touted as crucial moments in determining the winner. Meanwhile, in cricket, players like Joe Root and Sachin Tendulkar are celebrated for their individual achievements.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) recognizes outstanding performances through its rankings system, which rates the best batters, bowlers, and all-rounders globally across various formats for both men's and women's cricket. This system provides a framework for measuring individual excellence in the sport. However, there is no single award that crowns the world's best cricketer.

The absence of an equivalent to the Ballon d'Or in cricket has not gone unnoticed, with some calling for greater recognition of individual achievements in the sport. Cricket fans are familiar with terms like "centuries," "five-wicket hauls," and batting averages, which highlight a player's exceptional skills. These statistics often spark intense discussions among fans and pundits.

The ICC rankings have become a benchmark for measuring cricketers' performances, but they do not provide the same level of individual recognition as the Ballon d'Or in football. The debate over whether cricket needs an equivalent to the Ballon d'Or continues, with some arguing that it would enhance the sport's global appeal and reward outstanding individual achievements.

The absence of a definitive individual award in cricket has sparked debate about the sport's global appeal.

Cricket fans are accustomed to discussing their favorite players' performances, but there seems to be a lack of consensus on who is the best overall player in the world.

The ICC has its own annual awards program, which was launched in 2004. The Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy and Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy are awarded to the men's and women's cricketers of the year, respectively.

However, it appears that the last declared winners were Jasprit Bumrah and Melie Kerr for their international performances in 2024, but there has been no announcement for 2025.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is re-evaluating its approach to recognizing outstanding cricket performances. According to a spokesperson, the goal is to create an event that generates significant global excitement and becomes a major highlight on the cricket calendar.

One way to achieve this is by making the awards more inclusive and representative of international cricket. This could involve introducing new categories or revising existing ones to reflect a broader range of performances across different teams and formats.

The Wisden almanack has long been a respected authority in cricket, presenting annual awards that recognize outstanding individual achievements. Among these are the five Cricketers of the Year, chosen by the editor based on performances from the previous English summer. Winners can only be selected once, making this honor particularly prestigious.

The Leading Cricketer in the World award has been presented by Wisden since 2004, with men's and women's versions introduced at different times. Current holders Mitchell Starc and Deepti Sharma are among the most recent recipients of this prestigious title, which is awarded to players who excel on a global stage.

According to Lawrence Booth, editor of the almanack, being one of the top five cricketers is still considered the most prestigious honor in the sport, having been awarded since 1889.

Booth emphasizes that this prize has a unique resonance among cricket fans, setting it apart from other awards. The Leading Cricketer in the World, on the other hand, aims to recognize talent beyond Anglo-centric perspectives by considering all types of cricket and nationalities throughout the year.

The ICC awards, which are similar to the Leading Cricketer in concept, often seem predictable as they typically go to leading run-scorers or wicket-takers. In contrast, the top five selection is more nuanced and intriguing, making it a prize that most people ask about.

While cricket's governing body, the ICC, might be pondering ways to revamp its awards ceremony, there are more pressing issues on its agenda than creating a glitzy trophy or crowning image like the Ballon d'Or.

Cricket's international landscape is teeming with talented players who could be contenders for top awards in 2026. Names like Harry Brook, Beth Mooney, Shai Hope, and Shree Charani are likely to feature prominently on nomination lists.

However, cricket doesn't have the same fixation on individual prizes as football does. Unlike football's obsession with the Ballon d'Or, cricket doesn't seem to be consumed by a single award that defines greatness.

The absence of a high-profile solo prize in cricket is perhaps a reflection of its more team-oriented nature and the numerous accolades already available to recognize outstanding performances.

The Guardian Sport: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2026/oct/20/golden-bat-or-ball-does-cricket-need-an-equivalent-to-the-ballon-dor

The game was dominated from start to finish, with Kane playing a crucial role in both the goals and the team's overall performance. His two neat and slick goals in each half showcased his exceptional skill on the pitch.

England's victory secured them almost certain qualification for the Nations League knockouts, requiring only one more point in November to guarantee their spot. This achievement is significant, given that England need just one more win or draw to book their place.

The match itself was not without its challenges, with Czechia pushing hard but ultimately unable to break through England's defense. The game's tempo was often slow, and it seemed at times as though the players were going through the motions.

However, Kane's presence on the pitch was a catalyst for excitement and energy. He continues to be a driving force behind the team's success, consistently delivering high-quality performances.

As he approaches this new milestone in his career, Kane remains humble and unassuming, preferring to focus on the collective effort of the team rather than individual achievements.

The goal that sealed Kane's milestone was a masterclass in execution, reminiscent of England's greatest moments from the past. It was a textbook example of a classic English football move, involving three long-distance touches and covering over 100 yards on the pitch.

As the players took to the field for the second half, there was a sense of reverence in the air. The opposing team's manager, Thomas Tuchel, showed his respect by applauding solemnly from the touchline, while England's players lined up for a bashful semi-guard of honour, shaking hands with their opponents.

Kane's goals-to-games ratio stood at 90 in 125, impressive symmetrical numbers that underscored his remarkable record. The temptation to void the second half and preserve this perfect score was almost too great to resist.

However, Kane had one more milestone to achieve before he could take a well-deserved rest. On 57 minutes, he scored his second goal of the game in typically understated fashion.

The goal itself was a beautiful downward header from a corner kick, combining two classic footballing tropes: the hanging ball and creating pace on the ball. It was a moment of pure class that sealed Kane's place in history.

As the game drew to a close, Kane was substituted to a warm ovation from the crowd, who had clearly been won over by his dedication and skill.

Kane's impressive goal-scoring record continues to stand out as he edges closer to becoming the greatest international goalscorer in history. With a remarkable ratio of goals per game, Kane is now just ahead of Ali Daei, who had held the top spot for some time.

The Iranian forward will likely be caught and surpassed by Kane soon, paving the way for him to join an elite group alongside Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. This achievement would solidify Kane's position as one of the all-time greats in international football.

Kane's career path has been marked by hard work and determination, rather than innate talent. He rose through the ranks from his early days at Millwall to become a top-tier player, earning recognition for his efforts along the way.

His dedication and perseverance have earned him widespread respect, with many regarding him as one of the most skilled players in the world. Kane's right foot is particularly feared by opponents, making it a potent weapon on the pitch.

As he continues to dominate on the international stage, Kane finds himself basking in the adoration of fans and pundits alike. His Ballon d'Or prospects are now a serious consideration, reflecting his status as one of the world's top players.

He has reached new heights in Germany, honing his skills and building on an impressive record of 85 goals in 75 games since last season's start. The global football community has taken notice, hailing him as one of the world's top centre-forwards, with Luis Díaz singling out Kane for praise as "a machine and also a gentleman".

But what about his performance in England? While he is widely admired abroad, back home there are more skeptical voices. Can he truly be considered among the best of all time? Does he have what it takes to lead England to glory?

Kane's standing among English football legends is undeniable. He may not surpass Bobby Charlton's record just yet, but in the modern era, he stands out as a standout performer. His impressive goal-scoring record and ability to perform under pressure have cemented his status as one of England's finest players.

Some critics argue that Kane struggles against top-tier opponents. However, it is worth noting that even the best players score more goals against weaker teams. This is not unique to Kane; in fact, it's a common trait among many top scorers. His record in tournaments, including 21 goals and two semi-final strikes, speaks for itself.

His ability to deliver on big stages has been questioned by some, but the numbers tell a different story. England may not have won major trophies during Kane's playing career, but this is more a reflection of the team's overall performance than any personal failing on his part.

Kane's impact would likely be felt even more if he were to play for one of the world's top teams. The likes of France, Argentina, or Spain might have already won a World Cup with him leading their attack.

As Kane took to the pitch, he seemed to radiate an aura of calmness, a sense of duty that is both inspiring and reassuring. His humility is almost as impressive as his skill on the field, where he consistently delivers with a level head and a clear focus.

The atmosphere at Wembley was subdued, with the usual midweek fervor lacking amidst the quartet of recent international fixtures. Kane's approach to the game seemed almost understated, as if he were holding back from the spotlight that is so often his domain. At times, he appeared content to blend into the background, preferring not to draw attention to himself.

It was clear that England's struggles with possession football continued, a trend that has been evident in recent matches. The team's tendency to play it safe and look for the easy pass out from the back is a trait that they need to overcome if they are to succeed at the highest level. On a more positive note, England did manage to find their rhythm and pace, breaking free from the tedium of midfield possession.

As the game unfolded, Kane's influence began to grow, his presence on the field a reminder of the impact he can have on a match. His ability to adapt and respond to different situations is a key factor in his success, allowing him to excel in various roles and formations.

Despite being surrounded by some of the world's top teams, Kane remains an asset that any nation would be proud to possess. The likes of France, Argentina, or Spain might have already won a World Cup with him leading their attack, but for now, he continues to inspire and lead England forward.

The England team continues to make progress on its journey, and fans are experiencing a renewed sense of excitement and empowerment as they watch their favorite players compete in the league. The team's success will largely depend on the consistent performance of key players, who must maintain their high standards throughout the season.

As the team navigates its path forward, it is clear that the foundation for future success has been laid by a select few, whose unwavering dedication and excellence have set the bar high for others to follow.

The Guardian Sport: https://www.theguardian.com/football/2026/oct/06/total-midweek-kane-englands-icon-delivers-a-classic-on-his-way-to-footballing-ultimacy

Kane's incredible journey to this achievement began when he started scoring goals at an alarming rate, netting a total of 89 goals in just 124 matches for England. His impressive goal-scoring record has made him his country's all-time leading scorer, and he continues to be a key player for both club and country.

The talented striker may have reached the age of 33, but his skills on the pitch remain unmatched. BBC Sport takes a closer look at Kane's remarkable story from humble beginnings to becoming one of England's most prolific goal-scorers.

Kane's rise to fame began when he was just six years old and joined Ridgeway Rovers for trials in 1999. The youth side, which had previously produced the likes of David Beckham, initially thought they had found themselves a new goalkeeper.

Dave Bricknell, a former coach at Ridgeway Rovers, recalled Kane's early days with the team: We were doing a shooting session and I asked for a lad who could go in goal. This little boy put his hand up and said he'd be happy to give it a go. Bricknell was impressed by Kane's skills between the posts, but soon realized that his true talent lay elsewhere on the pitch.

Kane quickly proved himself as a prolific striker, scoring goals with ease during training sessions. His impressive form caught the attention of professional scouts, who were eager to sign him for their clubs.

Harry Kane's exceptional goal-scoring ability has been evident since his childhood days as a goalkeeper, where he would often score goals for his team.

Trevor Bailey, Kane's manager at Waltham Forest, recalls that even when Kane wasn't involved in the game, he was always on the move up front and had a high success rate of scoring or setting up teammates.

Bailey praises Kane's ability to shoot early and catch goalkeepers off guard, which is a testament to his exceptional intuition as a striker. This skill has been honed over years of playing football at a young age.

Alex Welsh, a former academy coach at Arsenal, first met Harry in the academy and was impressed by his technical ability as a goalkeeper. However, Welsh notes that Kane's true desire was to score goals rather than play between the posts.

Welsh believes that this innate desire is the reason behind Kane's clinical finishing skills, which allow him to intuitively know what goalkeepers don't like and capitalize on those weaknesses.

Kane's time at Arsenal came to an abrupt end when he was released by the club at just 11 years old. However, his impressive form had already earned him a reputation as one of the top scorers in his age group.

Before joining Arsenal, Kane attended Larkswood Primary Academy and later Chingford Foundation School, where he was undoubtedly the star player on the football team. His dedication to both academics and sports was evident from an early age.

Kane's PE teacher at Chingford, Mark Leadon, praises the young striker for his exceptional technical ability, work ethic, and determination to succeed. Leadon notes that Kane was a gifted cricketer as well, but his true passion lay in football.

The desire to learn and improve was a hallmark of Kane's early development as a footballer, earning him recognition from Tottenham academy staff who signed him on scholarship terms at just 16 years old in July 2009.

This marked a significant turning point for the young player, giving him access to better training facilities and coaching that helped him refine his skills. As he settled into the academy's routine, Kane demonstrated a remarkable work ethic and dedication to his craft.

Former Tottenham youth-team coach Alex Inglethorpe recalled working with Kane around this time: When I joined Spurs as under-18 coach, Harry was 13, but even then it was clear that he had a strong foundation in the fundamentals of the game.

Inglethorpe noted that while Kane may not have been the standout player at first, his low-maintenance attitude and willingness to learn quickly made him a pleasure to work with. As he progressed through the youth ranks, Kane's dedication to improvement became increasingly evident.

One area where Kane began to make an impact was in the Tottenham youth team, where he started making appearances around the age of 16. He would often come off the bench and slot into various positions on the pitch, from right wing to centre-forward.

Kane eventually made his professional debut with League One side Leyton Orient in January 2011, coming on for veteran striker Scott McGleish at Rochdale. In his first taste of men's football, Kane scored five times in nine starts, quickly demonstrating that he was ready for the next level.

Kane's determination to succeed was evident from a young age, as he fought for every opportunity in training sessions.

He was willing to put in the hard work required to make an impact on the pitch, and his ability and desire to improve were clear to see.

However, despite his promising start, Kane still had some growing up to do at 17 years old. He was relatively slight and not particularly quick, but he made up for it with his technical skill.

After a few appearances for Tottenham in the first team, Kane was sent on loan to Millwall in January 2012 to gain more experience in the Championship.

His time at Millwall proved invaluable, as Kane's nine goals helped save the struggling side from relegation.

Sherwood's faith in Kane paid off as the young striker consistently outperformed his teammate Roberto Soldado in training sessions.

This performance on the pitch earned Kane a spot in the starting lineup, and he made the most of it by delivering impressive displays that left a lasting impression.

Kane's determination to succeed was evident in everything he did, and his hard work paid off when he scored 21 top-flight goals the following season.

His outstanding form caught the attention of England's national team, who called him up for his first international appearance in March 2015.

The move marked a significant milestone in Kane's career, one that was soon followed by numerous individual accolades as he established himself as one of the league's top strikers.

Kane went on to become Tottenham's all-time leading scorer with an impressive 280 goals in 435 appearances for the club.

Harry Kane's impressive career milestones extend far beyond his achievements for England and Tottenham Hotspur. At Bayern Munich, he has been a prolific goal-scorer, winning the Bundesliga Golden Boot three times.

His skills as a centre-forward have been praised by former Bayern defender Lothaur Matthaus, who believes Kane has revolutionized the position with his versatility and ability to play in multiple roles. This is evident not only in his goalscoring record but also in his range of skills, including passing, dribbling, and tackling.

Kane's recent form for Bayern Munich, where he scored 61 goals in one season, has made a significant impact on his reputation as one of the world's top strikers. Ex-England striker Alan Shearer notes that Kane looks fitter and stronger than ever before, which is a testament to his dedication and hard work.

As pundits continue to sing his praises, it is clear that Harry Kane has established himself as an exceptional player, with instincts that are "simply uncoachable". His impressive career will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come.

BBC Sport: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/cx2ln5n7yqdo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss

The team has been analyzing every detail from the semi-final finish at the World Cup to see what will give them an edge over their opponents. Barry, who works closely with head coach Thomas Tuchel, has been pouring over the data and discussions have become so intense that he's even joking about driving his boss mad.

A key element in unlocking England's full potential is creating a more fluid structure on the pitch. This new approach gives their top players the freedom to express themselves without being constrained by rigid formations or positions.

The benefits of this system were evident in Saturday's match, where Jude Bellingham played with increased liberty, drifting and overloading on either flank as he often had possession of the ball.

In his No 10 role, Bellingham was able to utilize his skills more effectively, and Barry believes that this liberation is essential for England's top players to reach their full potential.

Bellingham's versatility is well-documented, having played various roles for his club and country.

His ability to adapt and thrive in different positions has been a hallmark of his game, and it's an aspect that England's coaches are now capitalizing on.

The more fluid structure of the team allows Bellingham to play from instinct rather than being confined to a specific role. This freedom has brought out the best in him, with Barry attributing his success to this approach.

The challenge for England lies in finding a balance between harnessing Bellingham's abilities and giving him the space to operate freely within a game.

The shift towards a more fluid England team has allowed Jude Bellingham to thrive by giving him the freedom to operate within a game.

In the recent match against Croatia, it was clear that the team's blueprint involved players venturing into new zones, with full-backs positioned high up the pitch and wingers making runs off the sides.

This approach emphasizes combinations between players, prioritizing slick passing while also encouraging individuals to drop into unusual areas for cover. Footballing intelligence is key in maintaining the overall structure of the team.

The intensity of England's counterpress was a notable feature of the match, with players working together to regain possession within seconds of losing it. This pressure overwhelmed Croatia, particularly in the first half when England scored four goals.

The management hopes that this proactive approach will drive the team forward in the coming tournament cycle, as they face Czechia at Wembley on Tuesday night. The new style is no longer strictly positional, instead offering a more freewheeling approach to the game.

The England team's new approach has led to a more flexible and dynamic style of play, says coach Barry.

This shift towards fluidity is anchored by key principles that guide player movement and decision-making on the field.

With a talented group of players, the team has been able to quickly adapt to this new model, which emphasizes interchanging positions and creating space for individual creativity.

Harry Kane is set to equal a significant England record on Tuesday night when he wins his 125th cap. This milestone comes as a testament to his dedication and leadership qualities that have made him an integral part of the team.

Barry's praise for Kane is unwavering, highlighting his exceptional ball-striking skills, which Barry rates as the best among any player he has worked with. His experience in managing Portugal and working alongside Cristiano Ronaldo adds credibility to his assessment.

The Guardian Sport: https://www.theguardian.com/football/2026/oct/05/jude-awakening-how-a-more-fluid-england-are-unlocking-bellinghams-full-potential

The 23-year-old Real Madrid player had been left out of Thomas Tuchel's World Cup squad in October 2025, prompting speculation about his future with the national team. However, Bellingham ultimately made it to the tournament and proved himself as a vital asset for England, contributing significantly to their third-place finish at the World Cup.

Bellingham has already demonstrated his world-class abilities through outstanding performances for both club and country. His recent display against Croatia in the Nations League was particularly noteworthy, as he played a pivotal role in England's 7-0 victory - a result that saw Croatia suffer their worst defeat in history.

In this match, Bellingham not only scored but also provided three assists, showcasing his exceptional skill and vision on the pitch. He even had the honor of wearing the captain's armband for part of the game, highlighting his leadership qualities as well.

Bellingham's impressive performance on the pitch has not gone unnoticed by former football stars. Roy Keane, a renowned figure in the sport, praised Bellingham's skills, highlighting his exceptional running power and goal threat.

Keane was not alone in his admiration for the young player; Matt Upson, a former England defender, also sang Bellingham's praises. Upson recently voted him England's player of the year for the second consecutive year, which is a testament to his exceptional skills on the field.

Bellingham's impressive performance has earned him a spot as the team's number 10 in the future, according to Upson. This is not surprising given his fantastic display in possession and his ability to lift other players with his work rate off the ball.

England's front four, which includes Harry Kane, Bukayo Saka, and Anthony Gordon, also deserves praise for their role in demolishing the Croatian backline. The quartet's impressive performance saw Kane and Saka each score twice, while Gordon added a goal and an assist to the team's tally.

As England's match against Croatia continued, Harry Kane made history by scoring twice, but it was Jude Bellingham who caught attention for his impressive performance in front of goal.

Bellingham took on a more prominent role after Kane was rested with 20 minutes remaining, and it highlighted the young midfielder's importance as a leader within the squad. His display showcased every aspect of his game, leaving fans and pundits alike to take notice.

Former England striker Ian Wright praised Bellingham for his relentless drive and technical ability, noting that he is always involved in everything on the pitch. Wright specifically commended Bellingham's athleticism, intensity, and tendency to get into scoring positions unmarked.

Bellingham's impressive performance also marked a new milestone for him as a player. He became the first England player since Trent Alexander-Arnold in 2021 to record three assists in a single game against Croatia.

Tuchel was asked about Bellingham's display, and his response hinted that he may have reached another level of performance.

The manager's comments suggest that Bellingham has indeed reached a new level of performance, and it is up to him to continue pushing forward.

Tuchel emphasized the importance of constant improvement, stating that teams will inevitably catch up if players stand still. He also revealed that he made adjustments after England's World Cup semi-final loss, giving his players more responsibility, including Bellingham.

The impact of these changes was evident in the match, as Bellingham assisted Bukayo Saka's goal with a precise cross and received praise from his teammate for being "special" on the pitch.

BBC Sport: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/cv5yn8znyx2ro?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss

The game at Stadion HNK Rijeka was initially scheduled behind closed doors due to Uefa's punishment for the country's fans following racist and discriminatory behaviour last year, but 6,200 local schoolchildren were allowed in free of charge.

England's front four combined in devastating fashion, with Harry Kane and Bukayo Saka each scoring twice, while Jude Bellingham made history by becoming the first midfielder to register four goal involvements in a game since David Platt achieved it against San Marino in 1993.

Anthony Gordon and Morgan Rogers also found the net as England dominated the match. The team's performance has further solidified their grip on second place in their Nations League group, with qualification for next year's finals looking increasingly likely.

Tuchel praised his players' ability to bounce back from a limp World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina. He believes that this extended international break has given them the opportunity to put their disappointment behind them and move forward.

The manager said that England's performance in Croatia was a testament to how far they have come since the World Cup, where they were defeated by Lionel Messi's Argentina.

Thomas Tuchel hailed England's comprehensive 6-0 victory over Croatia as a complete performance that showcased their pressing game, invention in possession, and rapid counterattacks.

The manager praised Harry Kane for his intense playstyle, which he said is reminiscent of the Premier League level, and noted that the team has the conviction to play this way. Tuchel also highlighted England's ability to push forward with a high tempo, which gives them an edge over their opponents.

Tuchel's comments were echoed by Alex Scott, who made his full debut in midfield and put in an impressive performance. The 23-year-old midfielder was described as "so smooth on the ball" and praised for his decision-making and confidence on the pitch.

Scott's first start was a memorable one, and he revealed that facing Luka Modric was a surreal experience. Despite struggling against England, Modric is widely regarded as one of the best players in the world, and Scott said it was an honour to be on the same pitch as him.

Tuchel acknowledged that playing with such a high tempo carries risks, but believes his team can manage them effectively. He praised Scott's work rate off the ball, which he said made the midfielder a complete package.

The manager's comments suggest that England's performance against Croatia was a testament to their growth and development since the World Cup.

England's captain Harry Kane praised his team's attitude after their convincing 3-0 win over Croatia, a result that suggests they are moving on from their World Cup woes.

The match was a stark contrast to Croatia's previous defeat against Spain, and Kane believes this performance showcases the growth of England's players. He noted that many Croatian players were rested for the Spain game, which may have made them more eager to perform against England.

The Guardian Sport: https://www.theguardian.com/football/2026/oct/03/tuchel-convinced-england-have-buried-world-cup-woes-with-croatia-thrashing

Sterling's talent and dedication had taken him from humble beginnings to become one of the most promising young players in the country, earning recognition at Liverpool at just 17 years old.

His career trajectory stood out for its speed and success, with some even tipping him to be a top player on the world stage. However, his current situation is a far cry from those lofty expectations, with Sterling now without a club and awaiting sentencing for two serious charges.

A closer look at Sterling's past reveals a player who was seemingly perfectly suited for greatness, with his natural ability and drive often cited as key factors in his rapid rise to prominence. Mark Anderson, the Liverpool youth scout who identified him as a talent, recalls Sterling's exceptional confidence and passion on the pitch.

Sterling's fall from grace raises many questions about what went wrong, particularly when compared to players like Harry Kane, who continues to thrive at the top level despite being only 16 months older than his former teammate.

Raheem Sterling's early days at Liverpool were marked by his impressive physical strength, which surprised even his teammates who were older and more experienced. Despite not being seen often in the gym, he held his own against top players like Martin Skrtel and Mamadou Sakho.

Steven Gerrard has spoken highly of Sterling's mental toughness, revealing that he and Jamie Carragher didn't go easy on him during training sessions. This suggests that even at a young age, Sterling was able to withstand the intense pressure of competing with seasoned professionals.

The £100,000-a-week contract offer from Liverpool marked a turning point in Sterling's public image. He rejected the deal, sparking a heated debate about his character and motivations. The media portrayed him as an arrogant young player who prioritized money over loyalty.

Sterling responded to the criticism by giving an interview to the BBC, insisting that he wasn't a "money-grabbing 20-year-old". However, this only seemed to fuel the controversy further. Liverpool-supporting pundits turned against him, and his agent's comments about Sterling not signing a new deal for £1m per week added to the negative sentiment.

The summer transfer window saw Liverpool sell Sterling to Manchester City for an initial £44m. This move marked the beginning of a downward spiral in public opinion, as images emerged of Sterling inhaling from a balloon allegedly filled with nitrous oxide.

Sterling's reputation continued to suffer after he left Liverpool, particularly in England where he became a scapegoat for the Euro 2016 exit to Iceland. The abuse he received was so toxic that he branded himself #TheHatedOne on Instagram at just 21 years old.

The abuse Raheem Sterling faced on social media was severe enough to prompt him to brand himself #TheHatedOne on Instagram at just 21 years old.

Sterling's talent on the pitch had earned him widespread acclaim by this time. He had become a key player for Manchester City, and his performances in 2019 were particularly impressive. That year, he helped City win a domestic treble, scoring crucial goals in both the FA Cup final and the League Cup final shootout.

His achievements did not go unnoticed, with many of his peers and coaches praising his skills. Xavi Hernández, for instance, claimed that Sterling was "winning [the] race to replace Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo as one of the world's top players just a year later. This recognition was a testament to the impact Sterling had made on the game.

Sterling's contributions extended beyond Manchester City, however. He played a pivotal role in England's run to the Euro 2020 final, scoring crucial goals against Germany and Denmark along the way. His penalty-kick success story included winning the decisive goal for England against Denmark in the semi-final.

Despite his efforts on the pitch, Sterling faced criticism for some of his off-field activities. He had become a prominent voice calling out racism in society, particularly in the media's portrayal of him. His decision to buy his mother a house was criticized by some, who felt it was an extravagant gesture.

Those who worked closely with Sterling describe him as a kind and humble person. A source close to him says that he is polite and charming, and that he doesn't come across as arrogant or having an attitude.

Sterling's move to Chelsea marked a significant turning point in his career, one that would ultimately lead to his downfall. At 27, he was entering an age where many players reach their peak form, but instead of continuing on an upward trajectory, Sterling's performances began to falter.

The expectation surrounding his signing was immense, with Chelsea willing to pay him £325,000 a week for five years. However, the club's fortunes took a downturn shortly after his arrival, and Thomas Tuchel was sacked just seven weeks later. This set in motion a series of events that would have far-reaching consequences for Sterling.

Under successive managers, Graham Potter, Frank Lampard, Mauricio Pochettino, and Enzo Maresca, Sterling struggled to recapture the form he had shown at Manchester City. His numbers were significantly lower than what he had achieved during his time with Pep Guardiola's side, where he had posted extraordinary statistics in 2017-18, 2018-19, and 2019-20.

Sterling's decision to leave Manchester City for Chelsea has been questioned by one source, who suggested that the rigid structures of Brendan Rodgers at Liverpool and Guardiola at Manchester City were more conducive to his success than the chaos that existed at Chelsea. This may have played a role in his decline.

A collective decision was made at Chelsea in summer 2024 to sell Sterling, but it wasn't just his on-field performance that led to this decision. His personal life also came under scrutiny, and he was deemed unsuitable for the team due to these issues.

Sterling's treatment by Maresca was particularly harsh, as evidenced by the fact that he was left out of the squad for two games in a row, against Manchester City and Servette. This was a clear indication that his time at Chelsea was coming to an end.

It is worth noting that Sterling wasn't entirely blameless in this situation. Sources close to him admit that he did have issues with punctuality, often turning up late to training sessions despite being expected to set an example for the rest of the team. This lack of discipline ultimately contributed to his downfall at Chelsea.

Sterling's decision to stay in London was motivated by his family commitments, and Chelsea reluctantly agreed to loan him out to Arsenal despite initial reservations.

In his short stint at Arsenal, Sterling managed to score a solitary goal in a Carabao Cup game against Bolton on 25 September 2024, marking the last time he found the back of the net in a professional match.

Upon returning to Chelsea, sources close to the matter suggested that Sterling was advised to keep a distance from the main facilities at Cobham, although the club denied this claim. This created tension and added to his frustration with the situation.

By January, after six months without playing, Sterling's career was at a crossroads, and he realized he needed to take drastic action to revive his fortunes. The prospect of sitting on the sidelines for an extended period was no longer tenable.

Sterling ultimately decided against joining Juventus, which had expressed interest in loaning him, but instead opted for a buyout from Chelsea after six months without playing. The club agreed to release him from the remaining 18 months of his contract at a reduced fee.

The official statement announcing Sterling's departure was brief and to the point, consisting of just 23 words.

The comments from Thomas Tuchel, Chelsea's manager, suggest that Raheem Sterling is not just facing problems on the pitch but also in his personal life. Tuchel described Sterling as a nice guy to be around" and attributed his current situation to a difficult period, rather than solely due to his own fault.

Sterling was recently seen in court, where he learned that he faces the possibility of prison when proceedings resume in November. This development is likely to have significant consequences for his future in football, both domestically and internationally. The timing of this news also coincided with Liverpool's preparations for a League Cup match against Tottenham.

The people closest to Sterling are emphasizing the importance of giving him support during this challenging time. As Anderson notes, before becoming a well-known footballer, Sterling was just a young boy who needed someone to believe in his potential and help him develop as a player.

The Guardian Sport: https://www.theguardian.com/football/2026/oct/03/decline-and-fall-who-will-believe-in-raheem-sterling-now