Sterling was picked up by Robin van Persie's Feyenoord in early February, just weeks after being released by Chelsea. After receiving his work permit late last week, Sterling was handed his debut on Sunday afternoon - his first game since 25 May, 2025.
The 82-time England international trained in Belgium as he awaited approval of his work permit, with his team-mates joining him in his efforts to return to full fitness.
"It was a great introduction," Sterling said in a post-match interview with ESPN. "I think the trip to Belgium was a very good one to get integrated with the boys, to know your team-mates and know exactly what they're about. It was really enjoyable."
His debut lasted 30 minutes after being subbed on an hour into the game, and that was all he could've played: "I haven't played for a little bit. I've been trying to keep fit. I've been with the team now for a little bit, so it's all in all building one step at a time and trying to get to match fitness."
No contact with Tuchel
Sunday's 2-1 win over Telstar was Sterling's first game for a club outside of England, where he played 396 Premier League games for Liverpool, Manchester City, Chelsea, and Arsenal. Feyenoord expanded the gap to the chasers, NEC and Ajax, to five points, thus solidifying their bid for the Eredivisie's second UEFA Champions League ticket.
"It felt good. It's good to start your first game with a win, I think that's the most important for the targets that we're chasing. It was a good debut," said Sterling.
The winger refused to mention a difference between the Premier League and Eredivisie, instead prioritising what he's in the Netherlands for: "I'm here for a new experience, a new challenge. We've got some exceptional players, some very talented boys. It's now about maintaining that consistency and reaching our targets."
With the FIFA World Cup less than four months away, a good stint at Feyenoord could win Sterling a spot in Thomas Tuchel's final England squad.
"I haven't spoken with him," Sterling said. "Just keep playing football is the most important."