Arsenal, Chelsea and the Raheem Sterling situation - The Athletic

Raheem Sterling’s loan move to Arsenal has not gone as planned, with limited game time and inconsistent performances. While his recent display against PSV showed glimpses of his quality, he remains a fringe player under Mikel Arteta. Meanwhile, Chelsea are preparing to offload him permanently this summer.

Original Source
The Athletic
Written by
Craig 'Tosh' McKinnon
16 Mar
8:43
Analysis

The1905.Club Summary

Raheem Sterling’s time at Arsenal has been frustrating, with the winger struggling for regular minutes despite his experience and past success under Mikel Arteta at Manchester City. Initially signed to provide competition for Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka, Sterling has been unable to establish himself, making just 10 starts all season. His lack of sharpness has been evident in key matches, and even when Arsenal were short of attacking options, Arteta often preferred other players.

Chelsea, who loaned Sterling to Arsenal without a transfer or loan fee, have already decided to sell him this summer rather than send him on another loan. His high wages remain a stumbling block, but they are working to find a solution, with both European clubs and teams in Saudi Arabia emerging as potential destinations.

Despite his struggles, Sterling showed flashes of his best against PSV in the Champions League, registering two assists. However, his suspension for the first leg against Real Madrid and ineligibility to face Chelsea further limit his opportunities to make an impact.

Key Points

  • Sterling has struggled for game time at Arsenal, making just 10 starts this season.
  • His limited role has been surprising, especially given Arsenal’s injury issues in attack.
  • Despite his lack of minutes, he impressed with two assists against PSV, his best performance for Arsenal.
  • Sterling’s loan deal involved no transfer or loan fee, with Arsenal paying only a portion of his wages.
  • Chelsea plan to sell him permanently this summer, rather than sending him on another loan.
  • Finding a buyer may be difficult due to his high wages, though both European clubs and Saudi Arabian teams could be options.
  • Sterling is suspended for Arsenal’s first leg against Real Madrid and ineligible to face Chelsea, further limiting his chances to prove himself.
  • With Martinelli and Saka returning, his game time is likely to decrease further unless Arsenal go deeper in the Champions League.

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Written by 
Craig 'Tosh' McKinnon
Co-founder of The1905Club. A life long Chelsea fan and season ticket holder for over twenty years. Now residing in Poland, this doesn't stop Tosh from watching every minute of every game.
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