Feyenoord have temporarily moved their training base to Belgium this week to enable Raheem Sterling to take part while he awaits clearance to work in the Netherlands. The decision allows the England international to integrate with his new teammates and coaching staff despite not yet holding the necessary documentation to train and work in the country where the club is based.
Because Belgium operates under a different set of entry and work regulations, Sterling is able to join Feyenoord’s sessions there while the administrative process for his Dutch work permit continues. By relocating training, the club avoids a delay in his on-field involvement and maintains continuity in his preparation and fitness program.
The move underlines Feyenoord’s commitment to incorporating Sterling into their plans as efficiently as possible within the framework of national and cross-border regulations. Training outside the Netherlands allows the winger to begin learning the team’s tactical approach, build chemistry with fellow players, and adapt to the coaching methods without waiting on the final paperwork.
This arrangement is expected to be temporary and focused solely on bridging the gap until the permit issue is resolved. Once the necessary authorization is granted by Dutch authorities, Feyenoord are expected to return to their regular training operations in the Netherlands with Sterling fully eligible to participate there.
Using a nearby country as a short-term training base is an unusual but practical solution for clubs dealing with timing issues surrounding work permits. It minimizes disruption to the squad’s daily routine while ensuring new arrivals do not fall behind in physical preparation or tactical understanding.
For Sterling, the stint in Belgium provides an early opportunity to acclimatize to his new club environment, understand team responsibilities in different phases of play, and begin forming on-field connections with teammates. For Feyenoord, it preserves valuable training days during a period when integration of a new player could otherwise have been delayed by administrative processes beyond the club’s control.
