Manchester City signing Raheem Sterling disappointed with manner of Liverpool departure

Manchester City winger Raheem Sterling has hinted for the first time that he left Liverpool at war with manager Brendan Rodgers after securing a record-breaking move to the Etihad Stadium.

Sterling became the most expensive English player in history after leaving Merseyside for City, bringing an end to a long-running saga regarding his future.

The 20 year old's agent, Aidy Ward, had revealed that a falling out between Sterling and Rodgers was central to his Liverpool exit and the England international has strengthened that claim by saying he was "disappointed" with the manner of his departure.

"I think [I was keen on leaving] from the first moment I heard City were interested purely because of the direction that the football club is going in," he told Fox Sports upon flying in to join City's pre-season tour in Australia.

"As a footballer playing in the Premier League for such big clubs you're always going to have pressure but you have to deal with that and take it in your stride.

"It was a bit disappointing how it was left and that was the main problem I had with the situation, how I left it with Liverpool.

"I am good with everyone at the football club; the manager, the players and I wish them well for the new season. It is really disappointing how it finished off."

Upon announcing Sterling's move to City on 14 July, Liverpool published a 32-word statement on their official website ending: "Liverpool FC wishes Raheem well," fuelling conjecture regarding relations between the club and the player.

Rodgers has refused to answer questions requesting details into the relationship between the Liverpool boss and Sterling, but claims the pair parted on good terms.

"Raheem and I were texting yesterday. Everything with him is fine," said Rodgers according to The Guardian.

"Players are always going to be wanting to come to Liverpool. But players will move on. The profile of those we've brought in fit the profile of how we want to work. Plus we have players who will better for last season."