The Englishman has been linked with a move to Santiago Bernabeu, with the rumors intensifying following the Citizens' two-year ban from Europe.

After Man City were slapped with a two-year ban from Europe, speculation immediately began as to who would stay loyal and who would jump ships. One player at the forefront of that debate is Raheem Sterling.

The Englishman has been linked with other clubs for a while, namely Real Madrid, but after UEFA barred the Citizens from the Champions League, the Blancos rumors went into overdrive. The Englishman has now opened up about the rumors for the first time since the two-year ban was announced.

The Three Lions ace sat down for an interview with AS in which he touched upon an array of topics, but the discussion mainly involved their Champions League round of 16 opponents. He praised the Spanish giants over their improvements this season, named Luka Modric as his favorite player at the Bernabeu, and dismissed claims that Zidane’s success is down to luck.

However, the interesting part began when he was asked if he sees himself donning a Madrid jersey in the near future, a question which garnered a laugh from Sterling. The Man City superstar gave a coy response but reiterated his commitment to the Premier League giants.

“It’s one of those things…,” the 25-year-old said.

“Right now I’m at City and I’m really happy. But I say Real Madrid are a fantastic club, when you see the white shirt you know exactly what the club stands for, it’s massive. But at the same time, I have a contract with City now and I have to respect this. But it’s a fantastic club.”

When asked about the constant rumors linking the former Liverpool starlet with a move to Santiago Bernabeu, Raheem said: “It’s something that you see all the time, but I’m a City player and I’m enjoying it at the moment, even if things haven’t gone quite planned in the league. 

“We now have a massive opportunity in the Champions League but I keep saying Real Madrid is a fantastic club, there’s lovely weather but I keep saying that I am quite happy at City.”

A comment made by the English in the past was brought and was once again asked if he desires to one day play for the 13-time Champions League winners. This is the response that might catch Real Madrid’s attention as he hinted it could be a possibility.

“How do I answer that one?” Sterling said, laughing one more time.

“Is the camera live or is it just taking pictures? No one knows what the future will hold. I am a player and I am always open to challenges but right now my challenge is at Manchester City. In the future, hopefully, who knows...”

This will be an interesting space to watch. After stealing Hazard from Chelsea, Los Blancos could raid another Premier League side for their talented attacker. Only time will tell if Sterling will end up at the Bernabeu or not in the near future.